Seacoast Church in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, provides “Journey Bags” to children entering foster care, replacing trash bags with backpacks or duffels filled with clothing, toiletries, books, and comfort items. These bags aim to offer dignity and hope during a traumatic transition into DSS care. Donations are accepted through January 4, 2025, at church locations.​
Foster Care Statistics
As of June 30, 2025, South Carolina had 3,476 children in foster care statewide, with 707 in the Lowcountry region including Charleston County. Charleston County reported 179 children: 66 aged 0-6, 47 aged 7-12, 64 aged 13-17, and 2 young adults aged 18-20.​
Local Challenges
Charleston County ranks third statewide for foster care needs, behind Richland and Greenville counties. The state faces a foster home shortage, with licensed homes dropping from 1,793 in 2019 to 1,439 in 2023, needing nearly 2,000 more.​
Participation Details
Community members pick tags by age and gender, buy items, and return filled bags to Seacoast Church sites; financial donations are also welcomed online. Last year, over 4,000 bags were donated through church, business, and group efforts. DSS supports the initiative to ensure children keep their belongings.
