This data book for 1996 describes the condition of children in each of Mississippi's 82 counties, based on key indicators of child well-being. The first part of the report profiles child hunger in Mississippi, and discusses nutrition programs available to Mississippi's children, such as: the special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants and Children(WIC); the National School Lunch Program; the School Breakfast Program; the Summer Food Service Program; the Food Stamp Program; and finally the Child and Adult Care Food Program The data book then provides county specific trend data on nine indicators of child well-being: (1) low birth-weight; (2) infant mortality; (3) births to single teens; (4) single-parent families and working poor families; (5) child deaths; (6) teen deaths; (7) high school graduation; (8) teen unemployment; and (9) juvenile incarceration rate. Each indicator is described and analyzed. Demographic information and statistics for the State data and the top 10 counties are presented for each indicator. Tables with comparative data for previous years from selected counties are included, as well as suggestions on what can be done to reduce childhood hunger and undernutrition. (AA)