A Christmas Note From Our President | |
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As we enter this season of festive celebrations and gratitude, we are reminded of the generosity and compassion that surround us. This time of reflection offers a renewed sense of hope and unity in our communities, where kindness thrives. We are grateful for the giving hearts that come together to share God’s love through service to others.
Guided by the principles of the Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine, we offer constant prayers for those dedicated to serving people experiencing poverty. Our deepest wish is for blessings upon those who serve not just during this time of year, but throughout the year, that they feel not only the warmth of generosity but also the love and care that define the holiday spirit.
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While we embrace the holiday season, we are inspired by the gifts of today—the acts of kindness, the shared moments of joy, and the resilience of our communities. Looking ahead to 2025, we are reminded of the work still left to do. The promise of a new year calls us to continue our efforts in addressing poverty, supporting those who need it most, and working towards a South Carolina where all people can thrive. We carry forward the lessons and spirit of this season, knowing that together, we can create lasting change and build a brighter future for all.
May this season inspire us to act with compassion and courage, and may the peace and love of God guide us into the new year, bringing hope and healing to those in need.
-Donna Waites
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For the last 28 years, the Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina has supported over 1,100 nonprofits working to reduce poverty in the lives of individuals and families in the Palmetto State.
Beginning October 2024, the Foundation launched a strategic planning process that will ensure we can continue to center our mission and remain wise and faithful stewards of our resources. In 2025, the Foundation will use our time throughout this process to identify areas of growth and to ensure that our grantmaking remains equitable, accessible, and transparent. Current 2024 grantee partners will be eligible to renew their funding in 2025 based on meeting reporting milestones. Emails with specific instructions for 2025 grants are being shared with those partners. In deference to our strategic planning process, we will not be accepting any new grant inquiries or applications in 2025.
We value our grantee partners and are confident that this approach will ensure their excellent work continues while providing the Foundation staff and board an opportunity to pause, reflect and intentionally review our grantmaking goals and processes. We expect to conclude our planning process in June 2025 and release information regarding our future funding priorities on our website in October 2025.
If you have questions or would otherwise like to provide feedback specific to our grantmaking process, please reach out to Melinda Merrell, Senior Director of Grantmaking, at mmerrell@sistersofcharitysc.com.
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Our latest blog post, written by President Donna Waites, is live on our website as we reflect on a year of triumphs, challenges, and renewed commitment to ending poverty. Inspired by leaders like Dr. Matthew Desmond, the Foundation embraces the call to become “poverty abolitionists” and tackle the systemic barriers that perpetuate inequality. Join us in exploring how collective action, collaboration, and courage can create lasting change in the fight against poverty. | |
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Prayer from
Sister Judith Ann Karam
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During this time of uncertainty as a new administration is poised to take control of the leadership of our nation, the Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina remains committed to our mission and to our values of justice, collaboration, courage, compassion, respect, diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.
Our faith traditions call us to uphold the common good of all and promote the dignity of every human person, especially the most vulnerable among us. During this time of celebration for some and concern for others, the Foundation stands firm in our values and commitment to a South Carolina where all have the resources to thrive.
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Department of Social Services Launches Real-Time Case Status Technology | |
The South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS) recently launched new technology to allow Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) applicants to receive real-time application and case status notifications. To learn more about this new technology, check status updates, and complete an application, click below. | |
Middle Tyger Community Center | |
The Middle Tyger Community Center(MTCC) is a non-profit agency serving families in crisis and ongoing need in Spartanburg County. Throughout the devastation that Hurricane Helene has brought to South Carolina's Upstate, MTCC has been a constant place of support and resource hub for their community. | |
Turn90 Featured in Charleston Magazine | |
Turn90, a state-wide nonprofit that combines job training, supportive services, and peer mentorship to create a pathway to success after prison, was recently featured in a Charleston Magazine article titled, "Inking The Future." Dive in to discover how Turn90 is transforming the lives of formerly incarcerated men. | |
Together SC's 2025 Nonprofit Summit | |
Save the date for Together SC's 2025 Nonprofit Summit in Columbia, February 25th through 27th. With ample opportunity for networking, breakout sessions, workshops, and more, this year's summit theme is 'Creating Common Ground'. | | | | |
