Domestic Violence Resources and Safety for Single Mothers in South Carolina

Domestic Violence and Abuse Help & Safety Resources for Single Mothers in South Carolina

Last updated: September 2025

Emergency help now

Scan this first. If you’re in danger or need fast help, use the numbers below. Save them in your phone under safe names.

Call 911: If you or your children are in immediate danger. Document the call if it’s safe to do so.
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 | Text START to 88788 | 24/7 confidential help in 200+ languages with safety planning and local referrals. National Domestic Violence Hotline website (thehotline.org)
Find your local South Carolina shelter and advocate: Use the Coalition’s interactive map to connect with the DV program in your county for safety planning, shelter, legal advocacy, and counseling. SCCADVASA local resources map (sccadvasa.org)
South Carolina DSS list of local DV programs: Quick phone and hotline numbers for every region. SCDSS Domestic Violence Programs page and Help for Victims page (dss.sc.gov)
SC 2-1-1: Dial 211 or visit SC211.org for shelter, food, rent help, counseling, and more. Private, 24/7. SC 2‑1‑1 information and referral (uwasc.org)
Crime Victim Compensation: Apply for help with medical bills, counseling, lost wages, and funeral costs after a reported crime. Call 1-800-220-5370 (victims only) or 803-734-1900. SC Attorney General DCVC (scag.gov)
File for a Family Court Order of Protection: There’s no filing fee. Emergency hearings may be scheduled quickly and full hearings are required within 15 days. Forms are online. SC Judicial Branch Order of Protection forms and state law details. (sccourts.org, scstatehouse.gov, law.justia.com)

Safety first

Create a quick exit plan: Pack copies of IDs, birth certificates, Social Security cards, meds, keys, and a list of safe contacts. Keep it outside the home if possible with someone you trust.
Use safer tech: If your phone or laptop may be monitored, use a friend’s device, a library computer, or call a hotline from a safe phone. The Hotline site has an instant “quick exit” button.
Document abuse: If it’s safe, save photos, threatening messages, police reports, ER discharge notes, and names of witnesses. This supports orders of protection, custody, housing transfers, DCVC, UI for DV, and more.
Tell your child’s school or daycare: Share court orders and safe pickup lists. Ask about code words and safety procedures.

Quick facts about domestic violence in South Carolina

Silent Witness 2024 ceremony recognized 30 domestic-violence homicide victims from 2023 (24 women and 6 men), with an additional silhouette to represent unknown victims. (scag.gov)
SLED publishes statewide crime data and tools that include domestic-violence reporting and annual “Crime in South Carolina” books. Check your county’s trends and charges. (sled.sc.gov)
South Carolina DV fatality reports are issued annually by the Attorney General’s Office; see the “Silent Witness Statistical Report” for the latest statewide counts and county breakdowns. (dc.statelibrary.sc.gov)

Orders of Protection in South Carolina

The fastest legal shield for many moms is a Family Court Order of Protection.

What it does: An Order of Protection can order the abuser to stop abuse, stop contact, stay away from your home/work/school, and it can include temporary custody and temporary financial support. (scstatehouse.gov)

Where to file: Family Court in the county where the abuse happened, where you live (or are sheltered), where the abuser lives, or where you last lived together. After hours, a Magistrate can grant limited emergency relief. (scstatehouse.gov)

Cost: $0 filing fee by law. (scstatehouse.gov)

Timing: You can request an emergency hearing; under state law courts may hold an emergency hearing within 24 hours of service when immediate danger is shown. If no emergency hearing is granted, Family Court must hold a hearing within 15 days of filing. (law.justia.com)

How long it lasts: Final orders typically last 6–12 months, and can be extended for good cause. (scstatehouse.gov)

Forms and how to file: Download the Family Court forms (Petition, Financial Declaration, Summons) from the Judicial Branch site; local advocates can help you complete and file them. (sccourts.org)

Table — Order of Protection essentials

Step	What to do	Proof to bring	Timeline
File petition	Complete and file forms at Family Court Clerk	Police reports, photos, threats, medical notes, child school records	File same day
Emergency hearing	Ask for a motion for emergency hearing if there’s immediate danger	Affidavit describing danger; any recent incidents	Possible within 24 hours of service
Full hearing	Both sides present evidence	Your documentation and witnesses	Within 15 days of filing
Duration/relief	Court can order no-contact, stay-away, temp custody/support	Not applicable	Final order 6–12 months, extendable

Sources: South Carolina Code Title 20, Chapter 4; SC Judicial Branch materials. (scstatehouse.gov, law.justia.com, sccourts.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your local DV program for court advocacy, ask the Clerk for a new date if you were not served properly, or consult South Carolina Legal Services for legal help at 1-888-346-5592 (statewide intake). You can also contact the SC Victim Assistance Network legal intake at 803-509-6552. (scbar.org, scaccesstojustice.org, scvanlegal.org)

South Carolina shelters and advocacy programs

Contact your county program first for the fastest help with safety planning, shelter, court accompaniment, and children’s services.

Table — Key South Carolina DV programs and hotlines

Region	Program	Hotline	Counties served
Charleston Tri‑County	My Sister’s House	1-800-273-4673	Charleston, Berkeley, Dorchester (dss.sc.gov)
Upstate West	Safe Harbor	1-800-291-2139	Greenville, Anderson, Oconee, Pickens (dss.sc.gov)
Spartanburg/Cherokee/Union	SAFE Homes–Rape Crisis Coalition / Project R.E.S.T.	1-800-273-5066	Spartanburg, Cherokee, Union (dss.sc.gov)
Midlands	Sistercare	803-765-9428 or 1-800-637-7606	Richland, Lexington, Newberry, Fairfield, Kershaw (dss.sc.gov)
Pee Dee	Pee Dee Coalition	1-800-273-1820	Florence, Darlington, Marion, Chesterfield, Marlboro, Dillon, Williamsburg (dss.sc.gov)
Grand Strand	Family Justice Center	844-208-0161	Horry, Georgetown (dss.sc.gov)
Lowcountry	Hopeful Horizons	800-868-2632	Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, Jasper (dss.sc.gov)
Aiken area	Cumbee Center	803-649-0480	Aiken, Barnwell, Allendale; SA services in Edgefield, Saluda, McCormick (dss.sc.gov)
York/Lancaster/Chester	Safe Passage	1-800-659-0977	York, Lancaster, Chester (dss.sc.gov)
Orangeburg area	CASA/Family Systems	1-800-298-7228	Orangeburg, Calhoun, Bamberg (dss.sc.gov)
Sumter area	YWCA Upper Lowlands	803-775-2763	Sumter, Lee, Clarendon (dss.sc.gov)

Use the Coalition’s map to confirm current coverage and find additional programs. SCCADVASA interactive map (sccadvasa.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a shelter is full, ask the advocate to help with hotel vouchers or a referral to a nearby county. Call SC 2‑1‑1 to search for safe housing and transportation. If you can’t safely make calls, text the Hotline at 88788. (uwasc.org, thehotline.org)

Medical bills, counseling, and expenses after abuse

If the abuse is reported to law enforcement, the state’s Crime Victim Compensation program can help with costs.

What DCVC can pay: Medical and dental care, counseling, lost wages, funeral/burial, and limited transportation. It is a “fund of last resort,” so it pays after insurance or other sources. (scag.gov)

Caps to know: Up to $15, 000 * * f or m e d i c a l / d e n t a l; f u n er a l u pt o * *$ 6,500; mental‑health counseling sessions typically 20, with possible extension up to 40; the total award can reach $25,000 in extraordinary cases. Lost wages follow the state workers’ comp maximum rate under law. (scag.gov, law.justia.com, scstatehouse.gov)

Deadlines: Report the crime within 48 hours (can be waived for good cause). File your claim within 180 days (can be waived for good cause). Final deadline is generally within 4 years, with possible extension if injury is diagnosed later. (scag.gov)

How to apply: Call DCVC at 1-800-220-5370 (victims), 803-734-1900, or work with your local victim advocate to complete the application. Forms and instructions are online. (scag.gov)

Table — DCVC at a glance

Category	What’s covered	Typical caps
Medical/dental	ER, follow‑up, medications	Up to $15,000
Counseling	Licensed providers	Up to 20 sessions, may increase to 40
Lost wages/support	Victim or caregiver	Up to workers’ comp max rate (see statute)
Funeral/burial	If the victim dies	Up to $6,500
Total award	Extraordinary cases possible	Up to $25,000 with board approval

Sources: SC Attorney General DCVC pages and South Carolina Code §16‑3‑1180. (scag.gov, law.justia.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If DCVC denies your claim, you have 30 days to appeal. Ask your local advocate or SCVAN legal program (803-509-6552) for help preparing the appeal. (scag.gov, scvanlegal.org)

Food, cash, health care, and child care while you rebuild

These programs keep households stable while you secure safety, work, and court orders. Apply online if it’s safer, or by phone.

SNAP food assistance

Maximum monthly SNAP amounts through September 30, 2025 (48 states and DC): household of 1 $292 * *, 2 * *$ 536, 3 $768 * *, 4 * *$ 975, 5 $1, 158 * *, 6 * *$ 1,390, 7 $1, 536 * *, 8 * *$ 1,756, each additional person $220. (fns.usda.gov, everycrsreport.com)
Apply online: Use the DSS Benefits Portal; or call DSS Connect at 1-800-616-1309. SCDSS SNAP apply page and DSS contact page with hotline numbers (dss.sc.gov)
Expedited timeline: If your income and cash are very low, you may receive benefits within 7 days of applying. (secure.ssa.gov)

TANF cash assistance — Family Independence (FI)

Maximum monthly grant: 1 child $229 * *; 2 c hi l d re n * *$ 308; 3 children $388. Adults must meet participation requirements unless exempt. Apply via the DSS Benefits Portal or call 1-800-616-1309. (dss.sc.gov)

Medicaid and CHIP (Healthy Connections)

Parent/Caretaker monthly income limit (effective March 1, 2025): family of 3 $1, 376.91 * *; f ami l yo f 4 * *$ 1,661.08. Call 1-888-549-0820 for member services. (scdhhs.sc.gov, scdhhs.gov)
Pregnant women: Covered up to about 199% FPL and 12 months postpartum statewide (policy in effect since 2022). (scdhhs.sc.gov, scdhhs.gov)
Children (Partners for Healthy Children): Income up to about 208% FPL (monthly for family of 4 $5,572.66). Apply online or by phone 1-888-549-0820. (scdhhs.sc.gov)

WIC

Monthly fruit/vegetable benefit through September 30, 2025: children $26 * *; p re g nan t / p os tp a r t u m * *$ 47; fully/mostly breastfeeding $52. South Carolina also runs a seasonal Farmers’ Market Nutrition benefit. Contact your local WIC clinic via SCDHEC. (fns.usda.gov, dph.sc.gov)

Child care scholarships (SC Voucher)

Working Families Child Care Scholarship: for parents working or in school 15+ hours/week, income up to 85% of state median (family of 4 up to $76,272/year). Apply online or call 1-800-476-0199 for program info. (scchildcare.org)

Table — Quick program amounts and contacts

Program	Maximum benefit snapshot	How to apply
SNAP	Family of 4 up to $975/month	DSS Benefits Portal or call 1-800-616-1309 (fns.usda.gov, dss.sc.gov)
TANF (FI)	3-person case $388/month	DSS Benefits Portal or call 1-800-616-1309 (dss.sc.gov)
Medicaid parents	Family of 4 monthly limit $1,661.08	Apply online or call 1-888-549-0820 (scdhhs.sc.gov)
WIC CVB	Pregnant/postpartum $47/month produce	Contact local WIC clinic (SCDHEC) (fns.usda.gov)
Child care	Up to 85% SMI (family of 4 $76,272/year)	Apply online; program info 1-800-476-0199 (scchildcare.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your DV advocate to include letters explaining you left due to abuse; this can speed verifications. For SNAP, ask about expedited service if you have very low income and cash on hand. If any office can’t verify something quickly, ask for a supervisor or call SC 2‑1‑1 to find a Benefits Enrollment Center. (secure.ssa.gov, uwasc.org)

Housing and relocation

Emergency shelter: Call your local DV program first (see table above).
Longer‑term housing: South Carolina Housing’s Housing Choice Voucher waiting list in several counties is currently closed and can take 3–5 years when open. Ask your advocate about transitional housing and rapid rehousing options in your area. (schousing.sc.gov, schousing.com)
Early lease termination protections: A statewide bill has moved through the legislature that would allow certain DV survivors to terminate leases within 60 days of a qualifying incident, but as of September 2025 it has not been signed into law. You can still show your order of protection, police report, or conviction order and ask your landlord to release you; many do. (scstatehouse.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your local program about landlord advocacy letters, lock changes, “no‑trespass” notices, safety planning for apartments, and hotel voucher partnerships. Use SC 2‑1‑1 for regional housing resources and legal referrals if your landlord refuses reasonable safety accommodations. (uwasc.org)

Job and income protection if abuse affects your work

Unemployment Insurance for DV survivors: If you quit or were fired because of domestic violence and you feared future abuse at or on the way to work, needed to relocate, or believed leaving was necessary for your safety, you may qualify. Be ready to share documentation (police/court records; letters from shelter workers, clergy, doctors, or attorneys). Call 1-866-831-1724 or apply through the MyBenefits portal. (dew.sc.gov)
State law support: Benefits for DV‑related job loss are permitted by statute; documentation is confidential by law. (scstatehouse.gov, law.justia.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your UI claim is denied, ask for an appeal and request help from a legal aid attorney at 1-888-346-5592 or your DV program’s legal clinic. (scbar.org)

Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) — privacy for survivors

What it is: The new South Carolina ACP will provide a substitute mailing address you can use with state and local government agencies and courts; it keeps your residential address out of most public records and forwards first‑class mail. No fee to participate. (scag.gov)
Status: The ACP is being launched by the Attorney General’s Office and is expected to begin taking applications in early October 2025. For updates, contact 803-734-4517 or email the ACP office. (scag.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Until enrollment opens, ask your advocate about safer mailing options and privacy steps for court filings. Use a P.O. Box when allowed and ask the Clerk about sealing sensitive information. (sccadvasa.org)

Legal help and court navigation

South Carolina Legal Services (SCLS) statewide intake: 1-888-346-5592 (civil legal aid for eligible low‑income clients). Online intake available. (scbar.org, lawhelp.org)
SC Victim Assistance Network legal program: 803-509-6552 (English), 864-312-6456 (Spanish). (scvanlegal.org)
USC Law School Domestic Violence Clinic resources: Practical guides and video demos on orders of protection. (sc.edu)
SC Bar Lawyer Referral Service: 1-800-868-2284 statewide; 803-799-7100 (Richland/Lexington). (scaccesstojustice.org)
Court forms and how‑to: Family Court Order of Protection forms and self‑help manual are online. (sccourts.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your DV advocate to attend hearings with you, help prepare exhibits, and request continuances if you need more time to gather documents or find counsel. (sccadvasa.org)

Diverse communities and tailored help

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask local programs about LGBTQ+‑affirming counseling, inclusive shelter policies, and legal help for name/gender marker privacy. The Hotline serves all survivors confidentially and can connect you with LGBTQ+‑competent services. 1-800-799-7233 or text 88788. (thehotline.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Tell your advocate and the clerk about needed accommodations. DSS child care scholarships and Medicaid may approve special‑needs supports. Ask about paratransit for court and medical visits. 1-800-476-0199 (child care), 1-888-549-0820 (Medicaid). (scchildcare.org, scdhhs.sc.gov)
Veteran single mothers: Ask your VA social worker and local DV program about military‑connected services and safety planning with base authorities. The Hotline can refer you to veteran‑specific supports. 1-800-799-7233. (thehotline.org)
Immigrant and refugee single moms: You can seek civil protection orders and most victim services regardless of immigration status. SCLS and partner organizations help with VAWA self‑petitions, U visas, and T visas where appropriate. Call 1-888-346-5592 for legal screening. (adminrelief.org)
Tribal citizens: Call the Hotline for referral to StrongHearts Native Helpline (844-762-8483) and ask your local South Carolina program about culturally‑specific services. (thehotline.org)
Rural single moms with limited access: If travel is risky or costly, ask for phone or video advocacy, mobile advocacy, or remote court options. Use SC 2‑1‑1 to locate transportation and nearby safe lodging. (uwasc.org)
Single fathers: South Carolina DV services are for all survivors. Programs listed above assist fathers and their children; request child‑friendly shelter space and legal help for custody and safety orders. (dss.sc.gov)
Language access: Agencies listed (DSS, DCVC, DEW, SCDHHS, SC 2‑1‑1, and The Hotline) all provide interpreter services at no cost. If you’re denied an interpreter, ask for a supervisor and note the date/time. (uwasc.org, thehotline.org, scdhhs.gov)

Quick reference cheat sheet

911: Use for any immediate danger.
National DV Hotline: 1-800-799-7233, text 88788. (thehotline.org)
Local DV program: See the “Shelters and advocacy” table or Coalition map. (sccadvasa.org)
SC 2‑1‑1: Dial 211 for local resources 24/7. (uwasc.org)
Order of Protection: File in Family Court; $0 fee; hearing within 15 days; emergency possible within 24 hours of service. Forms online. (law.justia.com, scstatehouse.gov, sccourts.org)
Crime Victim Compensation: 1-800-220-5370. (scag.gov)
DSS SNAP/TANF: 1-800-616-1309. Expedited SNAP within 7 days if eligible. (dss.sc.gov, secure.ssa.gov)
Medicaid (Healthy Connections): 1-888-549-0820. (scdhhs.gov)
Unemployment (DEW): 1-866-831-1724. DV can qualify. (dew.sc.gov)

Application checklist

Proof of identity: Photo ID if available; children’s birth certificates or school records.
Evidence of abuse: Police report numbers, photos, messages, medical notes, witness names.
Housing: Lease or utility bills; ask the clerk to keep your address confidential when possible.
Income and expenses: Pay stubs, child support orders, rent and utility amounts for SNAP/TANF.
Child care and school: Letters from daycare/school confirming enrollment and pickup arrangements.
Medical: Insurance cards, pharmacy info, and a list of current medications.

Common mistakes to avoid

Waiting to ask for an emergency hearing: If you face immediate danger, request one at filing and include a clear affidavit. (law.justia.com)
Leaving without documents: If you must leave suddenly, that’s OK—your safety comes first. Ask your advocate to help you replace critical documents quickly.
Not reporting the crime when you want DCVC: If you plan to apply for compensation, report within 48 hours when safe (DCVC can waive for good cause). (scag.gov)
Missing SNAP expedited service: If you have very low cash and income, ask for expedited processing (7 days) when you apply. (secure.ssa.gov)
Assuming landlords must release you now: Statewide early‑termination protections were pending as of September 2025; bring your order of protection and ask, but plan backup housing. (scstatehouse.gov)

Frequently asked questions (South Carolina specific)

How fast can I get a protection order: Emergency hearings may be held within 24 hours of service when immediate danger is shown; otherwise the court must hold a hearing within 15 days of filing. (law.justia.com)
Do I pay to file: No. South Carolina law waives the filing fee for Orders of Protection. (scstatehouse.gov)
Can the judge give me temporary custody and support: Yes. Family Court can include temporary custody and temporary financial support in the order. (scstatehouse.gov)
How long does the order last: Usually 6–12 months, and you can request an extension for good cause. (scstatehouse.gov)
If I leave my job because of abuse, can I get unemployment: Yes, if you left due to DV and meet documentation rules. Apply online or call 1-866-831-1724. (dew.sc.gov)
What help does Crime Victim Compensation provide: Medical/dental up to $15, 000 * *, f u n er a l u pt o * *$ 6,500, counseling sessions (often 20, up to 40), lost wages, transportation, within overall caps. (scag.gov)
How soon can SNAP start: If you qualify for expedited service, benefits can begin within 7 days; otherwise, up to 30 days. Apply at DSS or call 1-800-616-1309. (secure.ssa.gov, dss.sc.gov)
What are the current SNAP maximums: For example, family of 3 $768 * *, f ami l yo f 4 * *$ 975 through September 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
Is there an Address Confidentiality Program: Yes—launching in October 2025. Call 803-734-4517 for updates. (scag.gov)
Who can help me fill out court forms: Local DV advocates, SC Legal Services (1-888-346-5592), and the USC Law Clinic resources. Forms are on the SC Judicial Branch site. (sccourts.org, scbar.org, sc.edu)

Regional resources directory (selected)

York/Lancaster/Chester: Safe Passage hotline 1-800-659-0977; legal referrals via SC Bar 1-800-868-2284. (dss.sc.gov, scaccesstojustice.org)
Greenville/Anderson/Oconee/Pickens: Safe Harbor hotline 1-800-291-2139; SCLS intake 1-888-346-5592. (dss.sc.gov, scbar.org)
Richland/Lexington/Newberry/Fairfield/Kershaw: Sistercare hotline 803-765-9428 / 1-800-637-7606; SCVAN legal 803-509-6552. (dss.sc.gov, scvanlegal.org)
Florence/Darlington/Marion/Chesterfield/Marlboro/Dillon/Williamsburg: Pee Dee Coalition 1-800-273-1820. (dss.sc.gov)
Charleston/Berkeley/Dorchester: My Sister’s House 1-800-273-4673; Charleston County Clerk info page for restraining orders. (charlestoncounty.gov)
Beaufort/Colleton/Hampton/Jasper: Hopeful Horizons 800-868-2632. (dss.sc.gov)

Tables — benefits and protections snapshot

Table — SNAP maximum allotments (Oct 1, 2024 – Sep 30, 2025)

Household size	Max SNAP
1	$292
2	$536
3	$768
4	$975
5	$1,158
6	$1,390
7	$1,536
8	$1,756
Each add’l	$220

Source: USDA FNS FY 2025 SNAP COLA. (fns.usda.gov)

Table — TANF (Family Independence) grant amounts

Household (children in benefit group)	Max monthly grant
1 child	$229
2 children	$308
3 children	$388

Source: SCDSS TANF (FI) program. (dss.sc.gov)

Table — WIC monthly produce benefit (CVB), FY 2025

Participant	Monthly CVB
Child (1–5)	$26
Pregnant or postpartum	$47
Fully/mostly breastfeeding	$52

Source: USDA WIC FY 2025 CVB amounts. (fns.usda.gov)

Table — Order of Protection quick rules

Topic	Rule
Filing fee	$0
Emergency hearing	Possible within 24 hours of service for immediate danger
Regular hearing	Within 15 days of filing
Duration	6–12 months, extendable

Source: South Carolina Code Title 20, Chapter 4; SC Courts. (law.justia.com, scstatehouse.gov, sccourts.org)

Table — Crime Victim Compensation key limits

Category	Amount
Medical/dental cap	Up to $15,000
Funeral/burial	Up to $6,500
Counseling	Often 20 sessions; up to 40 possible
Total award (extraordinary)	Up to $25,000

Source: SC Attorney General DCVC FAQ and §16‑3‑1180. (scag.gov, law.justia.com)

If the criminal case moves forward

Victim Services: For parole/probation notifications and hearing accompaniment, contact the SCDPPPS Office of Victim Services at 1-888-551-4118. (ppp.sc.gov)
SCDC Victim Services: For state prison custody status and notifications, call 1-800-835-0304. (doc.sc.gov)
Court‑based advocates: Your Solicitor’s Office has victim‑witness advocates who can help you with impact statements and court scheduling; ask your local program to connect you.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you aren’t being notified about hearings, call the numbers above and confirm your contact info. Ask to register for notifications in writing. (ppp.sc.gov)

Realistic timelines

Shelter placement: Same day if space is available; if full, ask for hotel vouchers or cross‑county placement.
Order of Protection: File the same day; emergency within 24 hours of service if granted; full hearing within 15 days. Orders typically 6–12 months. (law.justia.com, scstatehouse.gov)
SNAP: Expedited decision within 7 days if eligible; otherwise up to 30 days. (secure.ssa.gov)
DCVC: Several weeks to months depending on documentation; ask your advocate to submit medical bills early. (scag.gov)

What to bring to each appointment

Court: Photo ID, your petition, evidence, any police report numbers, a safe address for mail, and a childcare plan for the hearing day.
DSS/benefits: ID, proof of South Carolina residence, income and expense documents, children’s IDs, and any letters explaining your DV situation.
Medical/counseling: Insurance cards, DCVC claim number if filed, list of meds.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: We use official sources from the South Carolina Department of Social Services, the Attorney General’s Office, SCDHHS, SLED, USDA, SC Housing, and established nonprofits like SCCADVASA and SCVAN. This guide follows our Editorial Standards and is maintained by independent researchers; it is not legal advice and not affiliated with any government agency. Last verified: September 2025. Next review: April 2026.

Disclaimer

Important: Program amounts, eligibility, and procedures change. Always verify details with the agency or court linked here before you act. Use safe devices and private browsing when possible to protect your safety. If any link is broken or information looks outdated, email info@asinglemother.org so we can correct it quickly.

Sources

Orders of Protection law and forms: South Carolina Code Title 20, Chapter 4; SC Judicial Branch Petition for Order of Protection. (scstatehouse.gov, law.justia.com, sccourts.org)
Local DV program directory: South Carolina DSS DV pages; SCCADVASA interactive map. (dss.sc.gov, sccadvasa.org)
Silent Witness statistics and crime data: SC Attorney General news releases; SLED Crime Statistics portal. (scag.gov, sled.sc.gov)
Address Confidentiality Program: SC Attorney General ACP page and July 11, 2025 program launch announcement. (scag.gov)
Crime Victim Compensation: DCVC overview, FAQs, applications; South Carolina Code §16‑3‑1180. (scag.gov, law.justia.com)
SNAP amounts (FY 2025): USDA FNS COLA memorandum; SCDSS application and contact. (fns.usda.gov, dss.sc.gov)
Expedited SNAP: SSA Program Operations Manual on SNAP expedited service. (secure.ssa.gov)
TANF FI maximum grants: SCDSS TANF program page. (dss.sc.gov)
Medicaid income limits and postpartum extension: SCDHHS eligibility and communications. (scdhhs.sc.gov, scdhhs.gov)
WIC CVB amounts: USDA WIC FY 2025 policy. (fns.usda.gov)
Child care scholarships: SC Child Care Services income thresholds. (scchildcare.org)
Unemployment for DV survivors: DEW special circumstances page; SC Code §41‑35‑125. (dew.sc.gov, scstatehouse.gov)
SC 2‑1‑1: United Way Association of South Carolina. (uwasc.org)
The Hotline: National Domestic Violence Hotline contacts and safety info. (thehotline.org)

What to do next: Pick one safe step you can do today—call your local program, start a petition online, or ask the Hotline to help you plan. Your safety plan can be built one practical step at a time.

Learn more:

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