The Charleston County School District (CCSD) hosted its third annual ‘Serving the Unhoused and Underserved’ event on Saturday at the District 4 Football Stadium in North Charleston. This community-focused event, organized by the McKinney-Vento Program, aimed to provide direct resources to students and families experiencing homelessness. It was a collaboration between schools, churches, nonprofits, and local law enforcement, all coming together to support those in need.
Supporting Local Families and Students
Under federal law, more than 600 students in Charleston County are considered homeless. To help these students and their families, the event brought together essential services that addressed several key challenges faced by those in unstable living situations. The seven identified barriers targeted included housing instability, food insecurity, educational challenges, employment obstacles, transportation needs, health and mental health, as well as childcare.
Attendees had access to a variety of resources, including a job fair, mental health services, food distribution, and even a chance to win a vehicle. The event also featured a grocery giveaway and utility/rental assistance, aimed at alleviating some of the immediate struggles families face.
A Message of Support
Abria Pryor, a parent advocate for CCSD, highlighted the deeper message behind the event. While resources were available to meet practical needs, the event also aimed to show families that they are not alone. “We want them to know that CCSD cares about them,” said Pryor. “We want them to know that we are here to help. The McKinney-Vento office, the Department of Federal Programs are here. We’re here to make sure that they are being nurtured, they are being cared for, and they are utilizing the resources we have available for them.”
Collaboration for Long-Term Support
The event’s success was made possible through the efforts of 60 community partners who donated their time and resources. According to Pryor, the key to lasting change lies in connecting families with the right services to help them stabilize and move toward a more sustainable future. “We have to identify our families, and when we identify them, we can give them the specific resources they need to help stabilize their homes,” said Pryor. “Families who are unhoused need help, and those in need of employment must have access to jobs in order to maintain housing.”
The ‘Serving the Unhoused and Underserved’ event was a powerful example of how community collaboration can provide much-needed support to those in need. By addressing multiple challenges faced by families experiencing homelessness, the event not only provided immediate relief but also helped to create pathways for long-term stability and success. It underscored the importance of supporting the community’s most vulnerable, with a message of care, hope, and opportunity.
