Local Resources Available
There are a variety of services available across the state depending on your location.
The South Carolina Department on Aging (SCDOA) enhances the quality of life for seniors in South Carolina. The SCDOA works with a network of regional and local organizations to develop and manage services that help seniors remain independent in their homes and in their communities to adjust to their new environment;
Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) are local aging programs that provide information and services on a range of assistance for older adults and those who care for them. Caregivers aged 55+ caring for minor kin children can qualify the Family Caregiver Support Program: flexible financial assistance that can be used for respite, childcare, academic support, etc.To get connected to your local AAA, visit: https://www.getcaresc.com/about/area-agencies-aging
Local United Way and 211 There are 25 independent, locally-governed United Ways across South Carolina. These United Way organizations fight for the Health, Education and Financial Stability of every person in their community. To find a local United Way in your area, visit: https://www.unitedway.org/
Hosted by United Way, 211 is a free, confidential referral and information helpline and website that connects people of all ages and from all communities to the essential health and human services they need, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 211 can be accessed by phone or computer. A toll-free call to 211 connects you to a community resource specialist in your area who can put you in touch with local organizations that provide critical services that can improve—and save—lives. https://sc211.org/
Regional Kinship-Specific Organizations: The following are South Carolina organizations offering kinship support groups:
- HALOS (Berkeley, Charleston & Dorchester counties): www.charlestonhalos.org
- Pendleton Place (serving Greenville and surrounding): https://pendletonplace.org/
- Kindred Hearts (serving Richland and surrounding counties): https://www.kindredheartssc.org/
- National Youth Advocacy Program (serving Charleston and surrounding counties): https://www.nyap.org/nyap-locations/south-carolina.html
- Federation of Families (PeeDee area): www.fedfamsc.org
For more information on local Kinship Care Services, visit Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina’s Kinship Council website. Additionally, on a statewide level, the Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina’s Kinship Council, established in 2014, is committed to bringing attention to the incredible strengths of kinship families and the challenges they face. Through this Initiative, we seek to increase permanency, stability and livelihood of kinship families so that children across South Carolina live in safe, loving homes. To see the leaders in your community who are part of the council, visit: Kinship Care | Sisters of Charity Foundation SC (sistersofcharitysc.com)
KinshipSC is a collaboration between HALOS and SC Department of Social Services.
