May 2020
COVID-19, Tornadoes and New Builds:
An Update From the Frontlines
Happy Spring, Everyone!
It's hard to believe, but summer is almost here. We just wanted to let you know that so much has taken place since our last update! In addition to continuing our COVID-19 response efforts, we are now assisting the SC Association of Habitat Affiliates (SCAHA) in supporting SCEMD in recovery efforts resulting from tornadoes occurring earlier this year, as well as ramping up for the 2020 hurricane season. We are also continuing our Lexington builds, closing on one of our Cayce homes, and making sure that our staff remains safe during all of these trying times. Please read on for more information on each of these exciting endeavors.
COVID-19 and Tornado Response:
COVID-19. We still continue to distribute, in collaboration with SC Association of Habitat Affiliates to distribute hand sanitizer, face masks, gloves, and other supplies. Thank you to the SC Emergency Management Division and to the individuals, corporations, and other donors who have helped us keep our communities safe!
TORNADO/HAZARDOUS WEATHER RESPONSE. We continue to assist SCEMD in resourcing needs for both Habitat affiliates, including FEMA tarps, MREs from SCEMD , Food Lion for over 100 gift cards, and construction supplies from the Home Depot Foundation for areas affected by recent hazardous weather. We are currently monitoring the Atlantic, having already tracked Tropical Storm Arthur and planning for the hurricane season beginning June 1st.
Even in a Pandemic, Great News! Melissa Becomes a Homeowner:
Congratulations to our newest Cayce homeowner Melissa!! It was a long road with many challenges, including the indefinite postponement of her Home Dedication due to COVID-19. Through it all Melissa has been a trooper and we are are so excited for her. We plan to hold a housewarming of some sorts with her volunteers and sponsors, Dominion Energy , later this summer. As always, big thanks to LawyerLisa, LLC for their amazing work!
Lexington Construction Continues Even Without Volunteers:
Even though we have been faithfully observing our social distancing guidelines, the construction on 104 and 106 Jessie Street in Lexington continues. Construction staff has been supplemented by our Neighborhood Revitalization crew, as well as by Executive Director Roy Kramer. These efforts have helped to keep these on track for a summer closing.
How can you Help?
As we continue to weather setbacks caused by COVID-19, we are still working hard to ensure that Central SC Habitat for Humanity supports families as they continue to work towards home ownership. During this trying time, any donation, no matter how big or how small, will help us to continue to serve those who need our help both now and, in the months, to come. There are several ways to support our capacity to continue to serve South Carolina’s emergency response:

In-Kind Gifts:
  • Hand Sanitizer for the ReStore and for Habitat Operations
  • Surgical or N95 face masks for staff when working with the public
  • Nitrile Gloves (Sizes Medium, Large, and Extra Large)
  • Disinfectant wipes to clean frequently touched surfaces

Financial Support (93 cents of every dollar goes back into the community):
  • $100 Provides the material for 33 hand sanitizer kits for staff, clients, and first responders.
  • $250 Provides funding for two mission essential persons to continue to serve the community for one day.
  • $500 Supports the Central SC Habitat food pantry, providing approximately 290 meals to Habitat families in need.
  • $1,000 Provides funding for 50 A35 PPE or other supplies needed to restock Habitat inventory depleted by emergency response.
  • $5,000 Provides full staff levels for Habitat disaster critical staffing for 1 ½ days.
  • Other Gift levels are also welcome.

There are several ways to donate:
  • Online. Please indicate "COVID-19" in the Comments Section.
  • Contact Karl Weeks by email, or (803)252-3973 with credit Card information
  • Mail a check to: Central SC Habitat for Humanity, 209 S. Sumter Street, Columbia, SC 29201

Thank you to everyone who have already reached out to help us during this time. We pray for your safety and health during this time and thank you for your prayers and support for our mission.

Blessings, be safe, check on your neighbors, and wash your hands. Thanks, and we can’t do this without YOU!

Roy Kramer and Team
Central SC Habitat for Humanity