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Community Support for Single Mothers in South Carolina

South Carolina Community Support Organizations, Churches & Charities for Single Mothers (2025)

Last updated: September 2025

This is a no‑fluff, action‑first guide to nonprofit, faith‑based, and community resources in South Carolina that can help with rent, utilities, food, diapers, shelter, legal aid, and more. It focuses on community organizations and churches—not state or federal benefit programs.


Note: Links below go directly to official organizations and service pages. We cite sources and include phone numbers, addresses, hours, eligibility, documents, typical timelines, and plan‑B options.

Quick Help Box (start here)

  • Call SC 2‑1‑1 for free 24/7 referrals to local charities: Dial 211, text “HELP” or “AYUDA” to 211‑211, use the SC 2‑1‑1 website or the free mobile app. Response is usually immediate; if hold times are high, use website/chat. (unitedwayofyc.org, uwasc.org)
  • If you need emergency family shelter: In the Lowcountry, call the Homeless Connection Line 843‑737‑8357 (One80 Place). In other regions, call 211. Veterans: Lowcountry 843‑212‑8668, Midlands 803‑726‑6348. (one80place.org)
  • For domestic violence and safety: Safe Harbor Upstate hotline 1‑800‑291‑2139; My Sister’s House Tri‑County hotlines 843‑744‑3242 or 1‑800‑273‑4673; Sistercare Midlands hotlines 803‑765‑9428 or 1‑800‑637‑7606. If in immediate danger, call 911. (safeharborsc.org, mysistershouse.org, columbiahousingsc.org)
  • For rent/utility help: Contact your local Salvation Army, Catholic Charities office, or Mission Lexington (Lexington Co.). See details, addresses, and required documents below. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org, charitiessc.org, missionlexingtonsc.org)
  • For food today: Check Harvest Hope Food Bank (Midlands/Upstate) and Lowcountry Food Bank (coast). Many pantries are same‑day, walk‑in. (harvesthope.org, lowcountryfoodbank.org)
  • Mental health support: DMH statewide crisis line 833‑364‑2274 (24/7) and NAMI South Carolina information line 1‑800‑788‑5131 (M–F). (namisc.org)

Emergency Section

If you or your kids are unsafe or unsheltered, act now:

  • Domestic violence emergency shelter and advocacy (free, confidential):
    • Safe Harbor (Greenville/Anderson/Pickens/Oconee): 1‑800‑291‑2139. (safeharborsc.org)
    • My Sister’s House (Charleston/Berkeley/Dorchester): 843‑744‑3242 or 1‑800‑273‑4673. (mysistershouse.org)
    • Sistercare (Richland/Lexington/Newberry/Fairfield/Kershaw): 803‑765‑9428 or 1‑800‑637‑7606. (columbiahousingsc.org)
  • Homeless family shelter and housing help:
    • One80 Place (Charleston area): Homeless Connection Line 843‑737‑8357. Veterans: 843‑212‑8668 (Lowcountry), 803‑726‑6348 (Midlands). (one80place.org)
    • Family Shelter at Homeless No More (Columbia): up to 17 families for up to 30 days. Call 803‑256‑3999. (homelessnomoresc.org)
  • Mental health crisis: SC Community Crisis Response & Intervention 833‑364‑2274 (24/7). (namisc.org)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Need Best first call Why Backup
Fast referrals to rent/utility/food help Dial 211 or use SC 2‑1‑1 app 24/7 statewide database; text options in English/Spanish Local United Way office
Family shelter (Charleston region) Homeless Connection Line 843‑737‑8357 Coordinated entry for shelter/housing One80 Place front desk 843‑723‑9477
Domestic violence shelter/advocacy Safe Harbor 1‑800‑291‑2139 (Upstate); My Sister’s House 1‑800‑273‑4673 (Tri‑County); Sistercare 1‑800‑637‑7606 (Midlands) 24/7 lines, confidential shelter, legal advocacy National DV Hotline 800‑799‑7233
Rent/utility help (Greenville) Salvation Army Greenville online intake; United Ministries Online intake + regular walk‑in pantry/medications Call 211 if funds are out
Rent/utility help (Lexington Co.) Mission Lexington social services walk‑in Same‑day walk‑in 9a–1p, documented impact data Salvation Army Midlands 803‑765‑0260
Food today (Midlands/Upstate) Harvest Hope pantries Walk‑in; 5–6 days of groceries Local church pantry via 211
Food today (Coastal counties) Lowcountry Food Bank pantry locator 240+ partners; 10 counties 211 after hours
Diapers (Charleston area) Bundles of Joy or JLC Diaper Bank Multiple pick‑ups; monthly distributions United for Baby (Elgin)
Mental health support SC Crisis Line 833‑364‑2274; NAMI SC info 1‑800‑788‑5131 24/7 crisis dispatch; info/referrals Dial 988

What to expect when you ask a charity for help

  • Most charities ask for a photo ID, Social Security cards for adults and kids, proof of address, proof of income (last 30–60 days), and the bill/eviction notice.
  • Same‑day help is possible for food/diapers. Rent/utility help often takes several business days to process and is paid directly to your landlord/utility.
  • Many offices open an application window each week or month until funds run out. Set a calendar reminder and apply first thing that morning (examples below).
  • If a charity says “we’re out of funds,” ask when their next application window opens and what documents you should bring to be first in line.

Statewide, Multi‑County Organizations (start here)

United Way’s SC 2‑1‑1 (free, 24/7)

Most efficient way to find open funding near you—by phone, text, chat, website, or the free mobile app.

  • How to use:
  • Tips:
    • Have your ZIP code, need (rent/utility/food/diapers), and documents ready. Ask the specialist to confirm “hours, eligibility, and what to bring.”

Salvation Army (local social services + Pathway of Hope for families)

  • What they offer: emergency help for rent, utilities, clothing vouchers, food boxes; case management through Pathway of Hope (must have at least one child under 18). (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
  • Local contacts:
    • Midlands (Columbia): Center for Worship & Social Services, 3024 Farrow Rd, Columbia, SC 29203, phone 803‑765‑0260, Social Services M–Th 8:30–4:00. Online and in‑person. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
    • Greenville/Pickens/Oconee: Emergency Financial Assistance (online intake; reply within 24–48 business hours once complete). If in Pickens/Oconee, call 864‑855‑7198 / 864‑882‑1160. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
  • Required documents (example: Greenville):
    • Completed intake, lease/mortgage, IDs and SS cards for all adults, proof of hardship/income, latest bank statement, updated utility bill; landlord W‑9/verification for rent. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
  • Reality check:
    • Help is one‑time and limited. Expect strict documentation and income review. If funds are exhausted, ask exactly when applications reopen.
  • What to do if this doesn’t work:
    • Ask for a Pathway of Hope referral (longer‑term case management). Then call 211 for church‑based funds in your ZIP. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)

Catholic Charities of South Carolina (Diocese of Charleston)

  • Offices by region with phones and programs (services vary by county):
    • Midlands: 809 Calhoun St, Columbia, SC 29201; main 803‑726‑7764; Clean of Heart laundry/showers appointments 803‑399‑9654. Clothing closet Tue morning. (charitiessc.org)
    • Coastal: St. Patrick Church, 127 St. Philip St, Charleston, SC 29403, 843‑531‑5570. Pantry/closet currently noted as “temporarily closed”—call for other services. (charitiessc.org)
    • Upstate: 2300 Old Buncombe Rd, Greenville, SC 29609, 864‑331‑2629. Pee Dee: 2294 Technology Blvd, Conway, 843‑438‑3083. Lowcountry (Hardeeville): 19869 Whyte Hardee Blvd, 843‑208‑2276. See “Need Help?” for county lists. (charitiessc.org)
    • Clean of Heart Columbia showers/laundry at 809 Calhoun St; appointments 803‑399‑9654. (Mobile unit in Greenville; call 864‑331‑2629 for schedule.) (charitiessc.org)
    • Immigration Legal Services (low‑cost, sliding scale) in Charleston 843‑388‑0089, Greenville/Berea 864‑274‑0141, Hilton Head 843‑785‑2200 (includes VAWA/U‑visa assistance). Appointment required. (charitiessc.org)
  • Reality check:
    • Most assistance is in‑kind (food, clothing, showers, hygiene, immigration legal help). Financial assistance is limited and varies by office.
  • What to do if this doesn’t work:
    • Ask staff for direct referrals (they partner with ShelterNet, SVDP, etc.). Then dial 211 for additional agencies in your county. (eccocharleston.org)

Food Banks (emergency groceries)

  • Harvest Hope Food Bank (Midlands & Upstate): Walk‑in pantries at Columbia and Greenville locations. Typical allotment is 5–6 days of groceries; once every 30 days. Hours vary by site. (harvesthope.org)
  • Lowcountry Food Bank (10 coastal counties): Use the Pantry Locator or call 843‑747‑8146 x100. Over 240 partner agencies; distribution calendar online. (lowcountryfoodbank.org)
  • What to bring:
    • Photo ID and birthdays for everyone in your household. If you go outside your home county, you’ll get donated food (not government commodity boxes). (harvesthope.org)

Family homelessness services

  • Family Shelter at Homeless No More (Columbia): Emergency shelter for up to 17 families for up to 30 days, keeps fathers and boys 12+ with the family. Call 803‑256‑3999. (homelessnomoresc.org)
  • Family Promise (multiple affiliates): Rotating congregation‑based shelter, prevention, and stabilization for families with children.
  • Plan B:
    • If full, ask for diversion/prevention help and “warm handoffs” to partner churches or short‑term motels; then call 211 for more openings.

Miracle Hill Ministries (Upstate)

  • Women & children’s emergency shelter: Shepherd’s Gate, 11 Regency Hill Dr, Greenville, 864‑268‑5589.
  • Organization footprint (largest homeless services provider in SC) with FY 2024 impact: 205,246 shelter beds and 353,140 meals provided. (miraclehill.org)
  • Reality check: Some sites require sobriety or program fees if employed. Ask staff about any costs before intake. (gvlhomes4all.org)

One80 Place (Lowcountry shelter & services)

  • Locations: Shelter at 35 Walnut St, Charleston; housing offices in N. Charleston and Columbia. For shelter/housing help, use the Homeless Connection Line 843‑737‑8357 (coordinated entry). (one80place.org)
  • Community lunch M–F 1:00–1:30 PM at the Charleston shelter. Veterans have dedicated contacts (see Quick Help Box). (one80place.org)

Utilities & Energy Assistance (charity funds)

Some energy help in SC comes from charitable funds supported by utilities and administered by local agencies/churches. These are not state benefits, but timelines and amounts depend on funding.

  • Dominion Energy South Carolina – EnergyShare: Year‑round assistance for income‑eligible seniors, people with disabilities, and low‑income households with electric/natural gas bills. Apply through your local Community Action Agency; program is funded by donations. (dominionenergy.com)
  • Duke Energy (Carolinas) – Share the Warmth: Partner agencies across Upstate counties can provide assistance; Duke’s own materials indicate eligible recipients “may be eligible for up to a $300 credit” toward the electric bill (varies by agency and funding). Call Duke’s Care line 800‑662‑7030 for agency info, or dial 211. (news.duke-energy.com)
  • Tips:
    • Call your utility first and ask for customer assistance and local partner agencies, then call those agencies to confirm application windows and documents.
  • Plan B:
    • If funds are out, ask your utility about payment plans and budget billing; then dial 211 for additional church‑based funds and explore local Operation Round Up programs (co‑ops like Berkeley Electric fund critical needs through small bill “round‑ups”). (thenews.coop)

Food, Diapers & Baby Items

  • Harvest Hope & Lowcountry Food Bank: See above (walk‑in hours and locator). Bring photo ID. (harvesthope.org, lowcountryfoodbank.org)
  • Diapers:
    • Bundles of Joy (Lowcountry): Main office at North Charleston Community Resource Center, 3963 Whipper Barony Ln, text 843‑819‑7016; multiple pick‑up sites and monthly distributions across Charleston, Berkeley, Dorchester; quarterly outreach in Colleton/Jasper/Beaufort/Hampton/Georgetown. (bundlesofjoydiaperbank.org)
    • Junior League of Charleston Diaper Bank: Donation and partner network; check for distribution partners and drop‑offs at 51 Folly Rd, Charleston. (jlcharleston.org)
    • Power In Changing – Diaper Bank of the Midlands (Columbia): 2638 Two Notch Rd, Suite 116, Columbia; office 803‑281‑0013; walk‑in hours posted. (powerinchanging.org)
    • United for Baby (Elgin/Kershaw Co., statewide reach): 803‑888‑9158, accepts referrals for diapers, formula, wipes. (unitedforbaby.org)
  • Reality check:
    • Most diaper banks serve once per month; bring ID and your child’s birthdate. Some require pre‑registration; text/confirm before you go.
  • Plan B:
    • Ask your pediatric clinic or WIC clinic for local partner agency lists (many clinics host pop‑ups with diaper banks or pantries; even if WIC is a government program, clinics often know community partners).

Health, Dental & Mental Health (community clinics)

  • Free medical/dental clinics statewide: Use the South Carolina Free Clinic Association’s locator to find a clinic near you (e.g., The Free Medical Clinic in Columbia 803‑765‑1503, Greenville Free Medical Clinic 864‑232‑1470, St. Luke’s Free Medical Clinic Spartanburg 864‑542‑2273, and more). (scfreeclinics.org)
  • One80 Place Health Clinic (Charleston): integrated clinic for people experiencing homelessness. (scfreeclinics.org)
  • Mental health:
    • SC Community Crisis Response & Intervention (24/7 mobile crisis): 833‑364‑2274.
    • NAMI South Carolina information line: 1‑800‑788‑5131 (M–F) for support groups and local resources. (namisc.org)
  • Plan B:
    • If a clinic waitlist is long, ask for “walk‑in hours,” medication refill days, or partner clinics. Call 211 after hours for urgent care/walk‑in options.

Legal Help (civil issues like custody, housing, benefits)

  • South Carolina Legal Services (free civil legal aid for eligible low‑income residents):
    • Statewide intake 1‑888‑346‑5592 (M–Th 9–6; hours vary), or apply online via LawHelp.org/SC. Local offices across the state. (lawhelp.org)
    • Topics include eviction, custody/visitation, child support, consumer debt, employment, public benefits, immigration relief for crime victims (VAWA/U visas), and more; availability varies. (immigrationadvocates.org)
  • Plan B:
    • If SCLS can’t take your case, ask them for a referral. Then contact your local DV agency’s legal advocacy team (e.g., My Sister’s House, Sistercare, Safe Harbor). (mysistershouse.org)

Real‑World Examples

  • ECCO (East Cooper Community Outreach, Mt. Pleasant) opens its Financial Assistance application on the first business day each month and pays approved bills directly to landlords/utilities, generally within 10–15 business days after approval. Eligibility includes documented hardship in the last 90 days and income at or below 250% FPL. (eccocharleston.org)
  • United Ministries (Greenville) offers financial assistance for rent/utilities by appointment (under 60 apply online Mondays 8:30 AM; 60+ call Tuesdays); pantry/medication/diapers are walk‑in M/T/F mornings. Frequency limits: rent/utility once every 24 months (under 60). (united-ministries.org)
  • Mission Lexington (Lexington County) provides walk‑in social services Mon–Thu 9 AM–1 PM and tracks impact (e.g., 134,558∗∗rent/mortgageaidand∗∗134,558** rent/mortgage aid and **19,328 utilities paid last year). Bring SC IDs for adults, SS cards for everyone, proof of crisis and income. (missionlexingtonsc.org)

Tables you can scan fast

A) Immediate Safety & Shelter Lines

Purpose Organization Phone Notes
DV shelter/advocacy (Upstate) Safe Harbor 1‑800‑291‑2139 24/7; confidential; multiple counties. (safeharborsc.org)
DV shelter/advocacy (Tri‑County) My Sister’s House 843‑744‑3242 / 1‑800‑273‑4673 24/7; Charleston/Berkeley/Dorchester. (mysistershouse.org)
DV shelter/advocacy (Midlands) Sistercare 803‑765‑9428 / 1‑800‑637‑7606 24/7; multiple Midlands counties. (columbiahousingsc.org)
Crisis mental health SC CCRI 833‑364‑2274 24/7 statewide crisis dispatch. (namisc.org)
Family shelter (Charleston area) Homeless Connection Line 843‑737‑8357 Coordinated entry for shelter/housing. (one80place.org)

B) Core Statewide Charities at a Glance

Org What they do How to apply Eligibility highlights
Salvation Army (local corps) Rent/utility assistance, food/clothing, Pathway of Hope family case management Online/phone/in‑person (varies) Must document crisis; Pathway of Hope requires a child <18. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
Catholic Charities of SC Food/clothing (varies), showers/laundry (Clean of Heart), immigration legal services Call your regional office Services vary by county; immigration fees sliding‑scale. (charitiessc.org)
United Way SC 2‑1‑1 24/7 referrals to local charities Dial 211, text 211‑211, app/web Free, confidential; multilingual. (uwasc.org)
Family Promise affiliates Family shelter, prevention, stabilization Call local affiliate Families with children; availability varies. (familypromisemidlands.org, familypromiseyc.org)
Miracle Hill (Upstate) Emergency shelters (women/children), meals Call site for intake Some program rules/fees if employed. (miraclehill.org, gvlhomes4all.org)
One80 Place Shelter/housing; coordinated entry HCL 843‑737‑8357 Lowcountry and Midlands services. (one80place.org)

C) Utilities & Energy Charity Funds

Utility territory Program Typical help Where to apply
Dominion Energy SC EnergyShare Bill assistance for income‑eligible, seniors, people with disabilities; year‑round Local Community Action Agency; details on Dominion site. (dominionenergy.com)
Duke Energy (Carolinas) Share the Warmth Up to $300 one‑time credit (varies by agency/funds) Partner agencies; call CARELINE 800‑662‑7030 or dial 211. (news.duke-energy.com)

D) Food & Diapers

Need Where Hours/notes
Emergency groceries (Midlands) Harvest Hope, 2220 Shop Rd, Columbia, 803‑254‑4432 Walk‑in; 5–6 days of food; once every 30 days. (harvesthope.org)
Emergency groceries (Upstate) Harvest Hope, 2818 White Horse Rd, Greenville, 864‑281‑3995 Walk‑in; drive‑thru; hours posted. (harvesthope.org)
Coastal pantry network Lowcountry Food Bank Use pantry locator; call 843‑747‑8146 x100. (lowcountryfoodbank.org)
Diapers (Lowcountry) Bundles of Joy Multiple pick‑ups; text 843‑819‑7016. (bundlesofjoydiaperbank.org)
Diapers (Midlands) Power In Changing 803‑281‑0013; Columbia walk‑in hours posted. (powerinchanging.org)

E) Midlands Family Shelter & Housing

Organization Address/Phone What they offer
Family Shelter (Homeless No More) 2411 Two Notch Rd, Columbia • 803‑256‑3999 Up to 17 families for up to 30 days; keeps families intact. (homelessnomoresc.org)
Mission Lexington 216 Harmon St, Lexington • 803‑785‑6900 Rent/utility help; pantry; clothing; walk‑in hours posted. (missionlexingtonsc.org)
Toby’s Place (Oliver Gospel) (Contact via Oliver Gospel) Overnight “Refresh” and 6‑month “Renew” for single women/moms. (olivergospel.org)

F) Free Clinics (examples)

Region Clinic Phone
Columbia The Free Medical Clinic 803‑765‑1503
Greenville Greenville Free Medical Clinic 864‑232‑1470
Spartanburg St. Luke’s Free Medical Clinic 864‑542‑2273
Statewide Directory SC Free Clinic Association 803‑900‑1606 (directory/association)

Source: SC Free Clinic Association clinic list. (scfreeclinics.org)

How to Apply (and actually get approved)

  • Gather documents before you call:
    • Photo ID for adults; Social Security cards for everyone; proof of address; lease/mortgage; last 30–60 days of income; recent bank statement; the bill/eviction or disconnect notice. Salvation Army and Mission Lexington require these for rent/utility help. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org, missionlexingtonsc.org)
  • Respect application windows:
    • United Ministries (Greenville) opens online applications Mondays 8:30 AM for those under 60; seniors call Tuesdays at 11:00 AM. ECCO opens on the 1st of each month. Put it on your calendar with reminders. (united-ministries.org, eccocharleston.org)
  • Expect processing time:

What can I realistically get?

  • Food: 5–6 days of groceries per pantry visit (Harvest Hope); typically once every 30 days. (harvesthope.org)
  • Utilities: Charity funds can cover part or all of a past‑due bill; example—Duke Energy’s Share the Warmth can provide up to $300 depending on the agency/funding. Dominion’s EnergyShare is year‑round via local partners. (news.duke-energy.com, dominionenergy.com)
  • Rent: Most charities can only assist once per 12–24 months and usually pay the landlord directly; you’ll need a current ledger and W‑9 from the landlord (Salvation Army Greenville, Mission Lexington). (southernusa.salvationarmy.org, missionlexingtonsc.org)
  • Shelter: Family Shelter (Columbia) allows up to 30 days; Family Promise and Miracle Hill policies vary by site. (homelessnomoresc.org)

Resources by Region

Upstate (Greenville/Spartanburg/Anderson/Pickens/Oconee/Laurens/Union/Cherokee)

  • United Ministries (Greenville): Rent/utilities, pantry, life‑sustaining meds. Walk‑in pantry M/T/F mornings; financial aid by appointment/online. 606 Pendleton St, Greenville; main 864‑232‑6463. (united-ministries.org)
  • Miracle Hill – Shepherd’s Gate (women/moms): 11 Regency Hill Dr, Greenville, 864‑268‑5589. (miraclehill.org)
  • Salvation Army Greenville: Online intake for rent/utility/clothing/food; reply within 24–48 business hours when complete. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
  • Greer Relief & Resources Agency (Greer/Taylors/Duncan/Lyman/Wellford/Startex): Rent/utility assistance during set service hours; documentation required. 113C Berry Ave, Greer; 864‑848‑5355. (spartanburghousing.org)
  • Family Promise of Pickens County (Easley): Family shelter through host congregations; call 864‑644‑8828. (homelessshelterdirectory.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Call 211 to check other Upstate agencies (TOTAL Ministries Spartanburg; AIM Anderson; Greater Spartanburg Ministries for seasonal energy help). (spartanburghousing.org, scacog.org)

Midlands (Richland/Lexington/Newberry/Fairfield/Kershaw/Orangeburg)

  • Mission Lexington: Walk‑in Mon–Thu 9 AM–1 PM; pantry M–F; documentation checklist provided; impact includes 134,558∗∗rent/mortgageand∗∗134,558** rent/mortgage and **19,328 utilities paid last year. 216 Harmon St, Lexington; 803‑785‑6900. (missionlexingtonsc.org)
  • Homeless No More – Family Shelter: Up to 17 families for 30 days; 2411 Two Notch Rd, Columbia; 803‑256‑3999. (homelessnomoresc.org)
  • Catholic Charities Midlands & Clean of Heart: 809 Calhoun St, Columbia; 803‑726‑7764; showers/laundry by appointment 803‑399‑9654. (charitiessc.org)
  • Toby’s Place (Oliver Gospel): Overnight and long‑term program for single women/moms; intake via Oliver Gospel. (olivergospel.org)
  • Salvation Army of the Midlands: 3024 Farrow Rd, Columbia; 803‑765‑0260. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)

Plan B:

  • If rent/utility funds are out, ask for referrals to church partners (SVDP, Cooperative Ministry coaching), then dial 211 to find current openings. (coopmin.org)

Lowcountry / Tri‑County (Charleston/Berkeley/Dorchester + surrounding)

  • One80 Place: Coordinated entry via 843‑737‑8357; family shelter, legal, and housing services. (one80place.org)
  • ECCO (East Cooper Community Outreach, Mt. Pleasant): Monthly Financial Assistance window; pay‑to‑vendor in 10–15 business days; income up to 250% FPL; 843‑849‑9220. (eccocharleston.org)
  • Neighbors Together (formerly Tri‑County Family Ministries): Hot meals M–Th, groceries via case management, limited emergency financial assistance; 2105 Cosgrove Ave, North Charleston; 843‑747‑1788. (neighborstogethersc.org)
  • Catholic Charities Coastal: 127 St. Philip St, Charleston, 843‑531‑5570 (call for current pantry/closet status; services available by appointment). (charitiessc.org)
  • Lowcountry Food Bank: Pantry locator and distribution calendar; main center 2864 Azalea Dr, Charleston. (lowcountryfoodbank.org)

Plan B:

  • Ask ECCO for a ShelterNet referral for rent/utility arrears (once per 12 months via partner referrals). (eccocharleston.org)

Pee Dee & Grand Strand (Florence/Horry/Georgetown/Marion/Dillon/Sumter)

  • Harvest Hope Pee Dee (Florence): Use pantry search; call 843‑661‑0826. (harvesthope.org)
  • Friendship Medical Clinic & Pharmacy (Conway): 843‑347‑7178 (for uninsured adults). Use SC Free Clinic directory for more sites. (scfreeclinics.org)
  • Family Justice Center (Georgetown/Horry) for DV services: see DSS list for hotline 843‑546‑3926. (dss.sc.gov)

Diverse Communities: targeted resources and tips

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers:
    • DV and shelter agencies serve all survivors; ask for LGBTQ+‑affirming advocates. NAMI SC can link you to affirming mental health support (1‑800‑788‑5131). (namisc.org)
  • Single mothers with disabilities or moms of children with disabilities:
    • Family Connection of South Carolina: peer support, education/IEP guidance, system navigation; 1‑800‑578‑8750 (Spanish 1‑888‑808‑7462). (familyconnectionsc.org)
  • Veteran single mothers:
    • One80 Place veteran housing lines (Lowcountry 843‑212‑8668; Midlands 803‑726‑6348); United Way 211 can also connect to SSVF partners. (one80place.org)
  • Immigrant/refugee moms:
    • Catholic Charities Immigration Legal Services (Charleston 843‑388‑0089; Greenville 864‑274‑0141; Hilton Head 843‑785‑2200) including VAWA/U‑visa help. (charitiessc.org)
  • Tribal citizens:
    • Ask 211 for county‑specific partners and any Catawba Indian Nation services for enrolled members; many county partners coordinate with tribal resources. (uwasc.org)
  • Rural single moms:
    • Use 211 text keywords (“food,” “home,” “electric”) to get options by text when you have limited minutes/data; many pantries and churches in rural counties rely on 211 for referrals. (uwpickens.org)
  • Single fathers raising kids:
  • Language access:
    • 211 offers multilingual specialists; Catholic Charities and SCLS can arrange interpreters; many DV hotlines have bilingual advocates or language lines. (uwasc.org, scaccesstojustice.org)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Waiting until the shut‑off/eviction date. Charity funds are limited and first‑come. Apply as soon as you get a past‑due notice.
  • Submitting incomplete applications. Agencies commonly reject missing landlord W‑9/ledger, SS cards, or proof of hardship.
  • Calling on the wrong day/time. Some groups only accept calls or online applications during narrow windows (e.g., Mondays 8:30 AM at United Ministries). Set alarms. (united-ministries.org)
  • Assuming you can choose the amount. Many agencies pay what they can directly to the vendor; ask what they can cover and combine sources if needed.

Application Checklist (print/save)

  • Photo ID for adults
  • Social Security cards for all household members
  • Proof of address (utility bill or lease)
  • Lease/mortgage statement and landlord contact; landlord W‑9 (for rent help)
  • Current bill or disconnect notice (for utilities)
  • Proof of income (last 30–60 days paystubs, benefits letters)
  • Proof of crisis or hardship within 90 days (job loss, medical bills, car repair, etc.)

Reality checks, timelines, and plan‑B options by need

Rent

  • Timeline: 2–10 business days to review; payment directly to landlord may take another 10–15 business days (ECCO timeline). (eccocharleston.org)
  • Plan B:
    • Ask for partial‑pay pledges from multiple agencies.
    • Request a ShelterNet referral (Tri‑County) or Family Promise prevention help. (eccocharleston.org)

Utilities

  • Expect one‑time help; amounts vary. Duke Share the Warmth may cover up to $300 in eligible cases via partner agencies; Dominion Energy’s EnergyShare is year‑round via CAA partners. (news.duke-energy.com, dominionenergy.com)
  • Plan B:
    • Ask for payment arrangements and budget billing; dial 211 for Operation Round Up/charity programs in your electric co‑op area (e.g., Berkeley Electric). (thenews.coop)

Food & Diapers

  • Same‑day possible; bring ID. Harvest Hope provides 5–6 days of groceries; Lowcountry Food Bank lists daily pantry hours online. (harvesthope.org, lowcountryfoodbank.org)
  • Plan B:
    • Ask about mobile distributions and evening pantries; some areas have Friday “weekend” boxes (Mission Lexington emergency food). (missionlexingtonsc.org)

10 South Carolina‑specific FAQs

  • Where do I call first if I’m overwhelmed?
    • Dial 211. It’s statewide, 24/7, and can text you a short list of agencies taking applications now. (uwasc.org)
  • Can I get rent help twice in one year?
    • Usually no. Many agencies limit rent help to once every 12–24 months (e.g., United Ministries once every 24 months for those under 60). (united-ministries.org)
  • How fast is ECCO?
    • Submit on the first business day of the month; if approved, vendors are paid within 10–15 business days. (eccocharleston.org)
  • Is Family Shelter in Columbia only for moms?
    • No. It keeps whole families together, including dads and boys over 12, for up to 30 days. (homelessnomoresc.org)
  • Where do I shower and do laundry in Columbia if I’m unhoused?
    • Catholic Charities Clean of Heart, 809 Calhoun St, appointments 803‑399‑9654. (charitiessc.org)
  • I’m a veteran single mom. Who helps fastest?
    • Call One80 Place veteran lines: Lowcountry 843‑212‑8668, Midlands 803‑726‑6348. (one80place.org)
  • Who helps with immigration paperwork if I’m a DV survivor?
    • Catholic Charities Immigration Legal Services (Charleston 843‑388‑0089, Greenville 864‑274‑0141, Hilton Head 843‑785‑2200) can assist with VAWA/U‑visa filings. (charitiessc.org)
  • Is there an app for finding resources?
    • Yes—SC 2‑1‑1 has a free app for iOS/Android. (uwasc.org)
  • Where can I find a free clinic for meds/refills?
    • Use the SC Free Clinic Association directory (examples: Columbia 803‑765‑1503, Greenville 864‑232‑1470). (scfreeclinics.org)
  • I’m not a survivor, but I need legal help with custody/eviction.
    • Call SCLS intake 1‑888‑346‑5592 or apply online via LawHelp.org/SC. (lawhelp.org)

Full Resource List (clickable, with phone and address)

What to do if you keep hitting dead ends

  • Switch from phone calls to online forms (many groups open form links at precise times).
  • Ask each agency for a written “pledge” or confirmation; stack pledges from 2–3 agencies to cover a full bill.
  • Use 211 to find faith‑based funds in small churches (these often don’t show up on Google but do in 211).
  • For ongoing stability, enroll in coaching programs like Salvation Army’s Pathway of Hope or United Way Opportunity Centers. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org, unitedwaygc.org)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from South Carolina nonprofits, utilities, and charity networks, plus United Way’s SC 2‑1‑1. It’s produced according to our Editorial Standards with primary, verifiable sources and direct links. We are independent researchers, not a government agency. Individual outcomes can’t be guaranteed.

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Corrections? Email info@asinglemother.org — we respond within 48–72 hours.

Disclaimer

Program details, hours, and funding availability change frequently. Always verify amounts, deadlines, addresses, and eligibility with the organization before you go. For safety‑sensitive issues (domestic violence, medical, mental health), follow the instructions of licensed professionals and call 911 in emergencies. We never request or store your personal information. For your privacy, clear your browser history if you’re researching safety resources on a shared device.

Sources (selected)

If you find an error or a broken link, please tell us at info@asinglemother.org so we can fix it fast.

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