Hattiesburg, MS is the city outside of Camp Shelby.
Because there are no amenities for military families on Camp Shelby, everything must be acquired off post, in Hattiesburg.
Here are a few things to help you get settled in your new home.
Churches There are quite a few churches in Hattiesburg.
If you are a Protestant Christian family, you should have no problem finding a church.
Here are a few to look into.
Temple Baptist Church - I personally attended this church and it is phenomenal.
I was worried about it being so big but the people are friendly and became our family away from home.
This church is focused on Christ and family.
There are many things to be involved in for all ages.
The services are a blend of traditional and contemporary.
This church comes highly recommended.
Venture Church (previously: First Baptist) - Although I did not personally attend this church, many military families on Camp Shelby did.
I have heard good things about it.
This church has a contemporary feel and many programs to join.
West Point - Although I do not know much about this church, many in our unit went here.
It is very multi-cultural and has a high military attendance.
Childcare There are many places for childcare in Hattiesburg.
Keep in mind, there are very few with extended hours.
Also, because there are no childcare facilities available on Camp Shelby, you may be eligible to receive money from the Army to help you with childcare cost.
Use the NAACRA site to determine if you are eligible.
However, many providers in Hattiesburg are not listed on the site.
So make sure and ask the provider if they are part of the program.
Just make sure and do your research.
I have listed below some childcare providers.
I only recommend one because it is the only one I have had experience with.
The rest are simple there to help you in your search and have been recommended by my friends.
The Learning Depot - I highly recommend this childcare service.
I used it and taught in it.
The workers are friendly and helpful.
Your child will learn what they need for school, have a Christ-centered experience, and have fun.
The staff works with the parents to achieve the best results for the child.
Creative Kids Faith Roots Crayon College Groceries There is no commissary on Camp Shelby, so you must get your groceries in Hattiesburg.
There are two Wal-Mart's (this is where most shop), two Winn Dixie's, Target, and a Farmer's Market.
Many times, military spouses will get together and go to Keesler Air Force Base (about one hour away) to buy groceries.
It is best to store up on meat when you do this.
Take a cooler as the MS heat will ruin your meat otherwise.
Shopping Hattiesburg has a mall that is standard and many, many boutiques.
For a more robust experience, where there are more stores centrally located in one area, it is best to go to Jackson, MS or Mobile, AL.
Both are around an hour away depending on where you live.
New Orleans, LA is also a little over an hour and has many shops.
Hattiesburg, MS is a unique town that offers a variety of things.
Most are not found online, but through word of mouth.
So make sure you get plugged in to a local church or other group in order to keep up on events in the area.