This week’s Everyday Hero is a woman whose dedication to helping others has touched the lives of many in downtown Charleston. Marsha Alterman spends her days providing food, drinks, and compassion to those without homes, those struggling with food insecurity, and those who have nothing but the clothes on their backs. With a smile on her face and a heart full of kindness, Marsha has been making a difference for years, but her efforts became even more vital during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Heart of Service
Marsha’s journey into giving back began with years of non-profit and volunteer work. Her mission is simple but powerful: to provide not only nourishment but also dignity to the people she helps. She’s known for her warm, empathetic approach—sitting down with people, looking them in the eye, and treating them as equals. “I don’t just serve them lunch. I serve them dignity. They feel human,” Marsha explains.
Packing Up for the Day
Each week, Marsha packs her car with food, drinks, and essential items, making deliveries to the homeless in the heart of downtown Charleston. Her garage, stocked with shelves full of food and refrigerators packed to the brim, is the hub for this daily act of kindness. She is often accompanied by her two faithful companions, Maddie and Olive, who help keep her motivated as she hits the road.
Giving Back to Others
For Marsha, volunteering isn’t just about helping others—it’s a way for her to find peace and purpose. “When you’re there for somebody else, not only do my problems seem insignificant, but I’m not thinking about myself. I’m thinking about what I’m doing at that moment, it actually gives me a break from my life,” she said. While her own challenges disappear for a while, the people she helps still face the uncertainty of life on the streets. But thanks to Marsha, they know they can count on a meal, a drink, and a friendly face.
Hitting the Streets
Marsha’s day starts in Marion Square and then moves to Meeting Street, where she knows every face and every name. On especially hot days, she makes sure to bring plenty of cold water, which is in high demand. Her work is exhausting, but the rewards are immeasurable. The gratitude she receives from the people she helps is what fuels her to keep going.
A Community Effort
Marsha is quick to acknowledge that her work wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of others. She thanks everyone who has supported her—those who donate food, money, and their time. Her humble spirit and unwavering dedication have made a lasting impact on the community.
Marsha Alterman’s selfless contributions to Charleston are an inspiration to all of us. Through her kindness, she not only provides for the physical needs of those in her community but also restores their sense of dignity and humanity. For all the lives she’s touched, Marsha remains an everyday hero, showing us all the power of giving back.
