2014 Program Brochures & Faqs

Charleston County Human Services Commission (CCHSC) is a private, non-profit Community Action Agency. The mission of the agency is to serve the economically disadvantaged residents of Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester Counties by increasing self-sufficiency and developing strategies to promote economic independence through partnerships. Our main office and outreach centers provide programs which will combat unemployment, poor living conditions, homelessness, poor health and poor nutrition. Programs and services are designed to negate the causes and conditions of situational and generational poverty.

In 2013, Charleston County Human Services Commission provided services to more than 15,000 individuals in more than 6,600 families through its emergency outreach and self-sufficiency programs. CCHSC receives its funding primarily from a combination of federal grant programs such as the Community Services Block Grant, 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, Economic Opportunity Act Program, the Department of Energy, the Department of Labor, the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, local businesses and private citizens.

The CCHSC Board of Directors is made up of private business men and women, elected government officials, and representatives from the low-income community. The Board of Directors are responsible for planning the programs’ policies and approving the programs’ budgets.

All programs and their corresponding services are subject to funding availability and program calendars. The agency welcomes financial support from the community to help provide more services throughout the Charleston area. **All donations are tax deductible.**

Let CCHSC Help YOUR Family...

SERVICE LOCATIONS MAIN OFFICE 1069 King Street Charleston, South Carolina 29403 843-724-6760 843-724-6787 (Fax) Business hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Monday-Friday

PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

About CCHSC

Charleston County Human Services Commission

Programs and Services

BERKELEY COUNTY (inside SC Works) 100 South Highway 52 Moncks Corner, SC 29461 843-761-6935 843-761-0523 (Fax) Business hours: 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Mon - Thurs LOWER DORCHESTER COUNTY (inside SC Works) 2885 West 5th North Street Summerville, SC 29483 843-832-7053 843-875-1168 (Fax) Business hours: 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Mon &Tues UPPER DORCHESTER COUNTY (inside St. George DSS office) 201 Johnston Street St. George, SC 29477 843-636-9090 843-636-9099 (Fax) Business hours: 8:30 a.m. -5:00 p.m.

Wed & Thurs

Planting the Seeds of Self-Sufficiency

**NO WALK-INS. CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT.** Let’s get social! ‘Like’ CCHSC and Project Pride on Facebook for the latest program updates and ‘follow’ us on Twitter.

Arnold Collins, Executive Director Reba Hough-Martin, Deputy Director 843-724-6760 phone 843-724-6787 fax www.cchscom.com

PROGRAMS

SERVICES

CONTACT TELEPHONE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

OUTREACH Charleston Water Systems (CWS) / Good Neighbors

Assistance with payment of water services, with a grant of $100.00 toward payment; services available all year

Outreach Department

724-6760 CHS 723-9285 CHS 761-6935 / 6936 BER 875-1168 DOR 636-9090 DOR

Service must be in disconnect status; delinquent bill in applicant's name; proof of monthly income; persons 18 years old and over with zero income must have verification from job service; photo ID; social security cards and date of birth for all members of household.

General Emergency Assistance Program (GEAP)

Provides emergency assistance once a year (rental assistance, medication, emergency services, protection from violence, emergency food vouchers, etc.)

Outreach Department

SAME AS ABOVE

Sustainable monthly income; delinquent bill within 30 days; photo ID; social security cards for all members of household; documentation of an emergency within the past 30 days.

Low Income Home Provides financial assistance with emergency energy Energy Assistance bills via grants paid directly to service providers; serProgram (LIHEAP) vices rendered twice yearly

Outreach Department

SAME AS ABOVE

Seniors, disabled individuals; households with children 5 years of age or younger; photo ID; social security cards and birth date for all household members; proof of income for anyone 18 yrs and older for past 30 days, if zero income must have verification from job service; bill must be in applicant's name.

Project Share (SCE&G) Energy Assistance

Provides financial assistance with emergency energy bills to prevent termination for SCE&G customers only, June through September

Outreach Department

SAME AS ABOVE

Seniors, disabled individuals; households with children less than 5 years of age; photo ID; social security cards and birth date for all household members; proof of income for anyone 18 years and older for past 30 days, if no income must have job seekers verification and zero income history printout from unemployment; bill must be in applicant's name.

Provides resources to assist disadvantaged residents of Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester Counties to be successful in seeking employment, maintaining their jobs, and identifying careers; Services include work support; childcare and transportation assistance; tuition and certification assistance; GED/HS diploma assistance. Services available all year.

Jennifer Brown Nekedra Lumar

843-724-6760 ext. 212 and 230

Photo ID, social security cards of all household members; verification of total family income for all household members 18 years and older for past 30 days; excluding high school students; if applicant has no income, must present job seekers verification and zero income history printout from unemployment office.

Encourages and enhances character building, educational achievement, civic responsibility and career exploration for the purpose of developing leadership in eligible youth; Services include free summer camp, summer school tuition assistance and school uniform assistance; services available all year

Youth Education Enrichment

843-724-6760 ext. 212 or 230

ASSET BUILDING

Provides low-income persons of Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester counties with budgeting, credit counseling, debt management and free tax preparation to increase self-sufficiency and financial knowledge.

Sheila M. West

843-724-6760 ext. 509

Reside in Charleston, Berkeley or Dorchester county; meet federal income guidelines; present picture ID and Social Security Card; present total household income within the past 30 days prior to application; provide Social Security Cards for all members of the household; provide birth dates for all members of the household.

WEATHERIZATION

Address insulation, infiltration and minor repairs of homes to conserve energy

Weatherization Department

843-720-5336

Photo ID, social security cards of all household members; meet income eligibility guidelines; verification of total family income for all household members 18 years and older for past 30 days; reside in a single family dwelling; all homes are assessed to determine repairs; resident of Charleston, Berkeley, Beaufort, Dorchester, Jasper, or Colleton County.

PROJECT PRIDE

YOUTH EDUCATION ENRICHMENT

Monthly income; photo ID; social security card for applicant; social security numbers for all household members.

HOUSING Affordable Housing

Builds and sells affordable housing for first-time home owners.

Willi Glee

843-730-3330

Families with incomes at 80% of median or below.

New Promise Permanent Housing

Provides and obtains permanent housing for the chronically homeless

Doris Grant

843-724-6760

Unaccompanied homeless individual with a disabling condition; must be continuously homeless for a year or more OR have had 4 episodes of homelessness within the past 3 years, in an emergency shelter during these stays; must be able to prove one of the following disabilities: Mental Illness, chronic alcohol/drug abuse, recovery from surgical procedures, HIV/AIDS, developmental challenges, Veteran, victim of domestic violence.

Rentals

Provides low income families with subsidized rental units

Housing Department

843-724-6760

Inquire as to specific guidelines and unit availability.

Emergency Mortgage

Mortgage assistance to avoid foreclosure (money management counseling may be required)

Asset Building

843-720-3718

Resident of Charleston, Berkeley, or Dorchester County; photo ID; check stubs from past 30 days and/or Award letter from SSI/Soc Sec; income must sustain household to maintain monthly finances; household members over 18 must provide proof of income for past 30 days; if zero income, must present job seekers verification and zero income history printout from unemployment office.

Charleston County Human Services Commission (CCHSC) is a private, non-profit Community Action Agency. The mission of the agency is to serve the economically disadvantaged residents of Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester Counties by increasing self-sufficiency and developing strategies to promote economic independence through partnerships. Our main office and outreach centers provide programs which will combat unemployment, poor living conditions, homelessness, poor health and poor nutrition.

In 2013, Charleston County Human Services Commission provided services to more than 15,000 individuals in more than 6,600 families through its emergency outreach and self-sufficiency programs. CCHSC receives its funding primarily from a combination of federal grant programs such as the Community Services Block Grant, 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, Economic Opportunity Act Program, the Department of Energy, the Department of Labor, the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, local businesses and private citizens.

The CCHSC Board of Directors is made up of private business men and women, elected government officials, and representatives from the low-income community. The Board of Directors are responsible for planning the programs’ policies and approving the programs’ budgets.

All programs and their corresponding services are subject to funding availability and program calendars. The agency welcomes financial support from the community to help provide more services throughout the Charleston area.

Housing Staff Affordable Housing Coordinator Willi Glee New Promise Permanent Housing Case Manager Doris Grant

HOUSING PROGRAMS

About CCHSC

Charleston County Human Serv ices Commission

Affordable Housing Rentals Emergency Mortgage Housing for First-Time Homebuyers New Promise Permanent Housing

Contact Us 1071 King Street Charleston, SC 29403 843-724-6760 ext. 519 Fax: 843-300-3981

Mission Statement The mission of Charleston County Human Services Commission is to serve economically disadvantaged residents of Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester Counties by increasing self-sufficiency and developing strategies to promote economic independence through partnerships.

We shape our dwellings, and afterwards our dwellings shape us. ~ Sir Winston Churchill

**All donations are tax deductible.**

Let CCHSC Help YOUR Family...

Let’s get social! Visit CCHSC on www.cchscom.com, ‘Like’ us on Facebook and ‘follow’ us on Twitter for the latest program updates .

Arnold Collins, Executive Director Reba Hough-Martin, Deputy Director 843-724-6760 phone 843-724-6787 fax www.cchscom.com

Housing Programs and Initiatives Affordable Housing 

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New Promise Permanent Housing Program

Builds and sells affordable housing for first-time homeowners who are income-eligible.

Target Population is “Workforce Housing” where the houses may be purchased by families with incomes at 80% of median or below.

Two agency-built homes were completed and sold in Downtown Charleston, SC: 84 Drake Street and 25 San Souci St. The selling price for the Drake St. home was $184,000 with $65,000 in homebuyer subsidies. A property at 29 San Souci St. recently sold in early 2014.

Affordable Housing unit pictured: 25 Sans Souci Street

Provides and obtains permanent housing for the chronically homeless, to also help participants increase skills and/or income and increase selfsufficiency.



The program is funded by HUD for individuals who meet the guideline below.

Eligibility

This program utilizes partnerships with Lowcountry Housing Trust, the City of Charleston’s Department of Housing and Community Development and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Affordable Housing unit pictured: 84 Drake Street

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Affordable Housing unit pictured: 29 Sans Souci St.

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An u na cc o mp a nie d ho me le ss individual or family with a disabling condition.

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Must be continuously homeless for a year or more OR has had four (4) episodes of homelessness in the past three (3) years.

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A person must have been in the streets or in an emergency shelter (not transitional housing) during these episodes.

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Must be able to prove one of these disabilities (as defined by HUD): mental illness, chronic alcohol/drug abuse, recovery from surgical procedures, HIV/AIDS, developmental challenges, veteran, survivor of domestic violence.

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Must meet federal poverty guidelines.

Rentals The agency is constructing two units located on Mulberry Street in the West Ashley area of Charleston that will be available for incomeeligible individuals to rent in late 2014.

The Asset Building program assists low-income residents of Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester counties to build assets through free tax preparation, income management and debt management.

Eligible participants must be residents of Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester counties. They must meet federal income guidelines and must present: 

Valid Picture ID



Social security card for all household members



Date of birth for all household members



Total household income for last 30 days

SERVICE LOCATIONS Charleston County (Main Office) 1069 King Street Charleston, SC 29403 Berkeley County (inside SC Works office) 100 S. Highway 52 Moncks Corner, SC 29461

ASSET BUILDING INITIATIVES

About Asset Building

Charleston County Human Services Commission

Asset Building FINANCIAL LITERACY COUNSELING MORTGAGE ASSISTANCE FREE TAX PREPARATION BUDGETING

Lower Dorchester County (inside Jedburg SC Works office) 2885 W. 5th North Street Summerville, SC 29483 Upper Dorchester County (inside St. GeorgeDSS office) 201 Johnson Street Saint George, SC 29477 **NO WALK-INS.**

Please call for an appointment.

Charleston County Human Services Commission Mission Statement

To serve economically disadvantaged residents of Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester Counties by increasing selfsufficiency and developing strategies to promote economic independence through partnerships.

Let CCHSC Help YOUR Family...

843-720-3718 or 843-724-6760 ext. 509

‘Like’ CCHSC on Facebook for the latest Asset Building program updates and ‘follow’ us on Twitter.

Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.

--Chinese Proverb

Sheila M. West Asset Building Coordinator 843-720-3718 phone 843-577-1018 fax www.cchscom.com

Allow Charleston County Human Services Commission’s Asset Building department to help you with the following: Managing Your Money Managing your money doesn’t mean creating a strict budget and giving up the extras you enjoy. It means making decisions which might help you reduce your debt and accumulate more funds in the future.

Banking Explore what services a bank offers. Learn about using a checking account, different types of checking accounts, debit cards, saving options, on-line banking, the benefits of banking and cautions about fees and penalties.

Using Credit Credit (or the ability to borrow money) can be a powerful tool in reaching your financial goals. Or, it can be a hidden enemy for those who do not have a spending plan or do not develop and maintain responsible credit management behavior and skills.

Credit History Understanding what your credit history is-what’s in it, what’s not in it and how you can improve your credit profile--can help you reach your financial goals. Even if you’ve never had a credit problem, the more you know about what your credit report is, how your credit score is calculated, and who uses your credit reports and scores, can only help you make more informed financial decisions.

Homeownership Renting vs. Buying. Which one’s right for you? We’ll help you decide and navigate the home buying process.

Mortgages Owning a home—whether it’s a house or a condo—can also be a smart move financially, since you’re buying a valuable asset with the money you spend for shelter.

Foreclosure Prevention Apply for mortgage assistance through our foreclosure prevention programs. Eligible program participants can receive up to $36,000 or 24 months’ assistance. Visit www.schelp.gov and choose Charleston County Human Services Commission to apply.

Couponing Learn how to become a savvy shopper and slash your grocery bills! Take home materials are provided. Register online with grocery stores, product manufacturers, service providers and coupon websites.

Financial Planning Looking for a way to pay for a major purchase? Need help finding some extra spending money? We’ll help you plan the best way to make your money work for you!

FREE VITA Tax Preparation Why pay someone to do your taxes? We’ll do them at no cost to you! Trained tax professionals will help you keep more of your money in your pockets by helping you navigate tax credits, exemptions and deductions. Returns are filed electronically so you’ll get them back quicker and you’ll keep 100% of your return! This service is based on appointment availability, so make sure you schedule your appointment well in advance!

$$$$$$$$$

Financial Literacy Classes Offered Every other Thursday from 5:30pm-8pm & Fridays from 9am-12pm You can also schedule a one-on-one appointment if you can’t make it to a class!

These classes and appointments are offered at our Main Office and satellite offices.

NOTE: Some CCHSC programs may require a financial literacy session to comply with program participation guidelines.

To serve economically disadvantaged residents of Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester Counties by increasing self-sufficiency and developing strategies to promote economic independence through partnerships.

CHARLESTON COUNTY HUMAN SERVICES COMMISSION The following documents are required to complete an application for assistance:  Legible state-issued photo ID for the applicant (name and address on ID must match what’s listed on all presented documents)  Legible Social Security cards for all household members  Proof of income for ALL household members for the past 30 days.

If the applicant has earnings or wages, they will need to provide their pay stub (examples are monthly, semi-monthly, bi-weekly and weekly).

If the applicant receives Social Security, SSI, pensions or retirement, they will need their current year benefit award letter. If the applicant has no income, they must present a zero income history printout from the website www.mybenefits.dew.sc.gov. Income includes but is not limited to: child support (a signed statement by the payer if support is voluntary or a statement from the court if it’s court-ordered); TANF/AFDC/Monthly Utility Check; SNAP; Unemployment Insurance; alimony; monthly stipends; adoption subsidies, etc. If the applicant is a business owner or is self-employed, they will need the current tax year statement (example: Schedule C or C-EZ with all pages signed and included).  If applying for utility assistance, the applicant must provide the three most recent bills in the applicant’s name; the bill must have a balance due within last 90 days. NOTE: CCHSC can’t pay for unallowable costs such as additional fees and services unrelated to energy.

SERVICE LOCATIONS MAIN OFFICE 1069 King Street Charleston, South Carolina 29403 843-724-6760 843-724-6787 (Fax) Business hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Monday-Friday BERKELEY COUNTY (inside SC Works) 100 South Highway 52 Moncks Corner, SC 29461 843-761-6935 843-761-0523 (Fax) Business hours: 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Mon - Thurs LOWER DORCHESTER COUNTY (inside SC Works) 2885 West 5th North Street Summerville, SC 29483 843-832-7053 843-875-1168 (Fax) Business hours: 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Mon &Tues

BASIC NEEDS AND EMERGENCY PROGRAMS

CCHSC MISSION

Charleston Cou nty Hu man Serv ices Commission

Outreach

REDUCE HEALTH & SAFETY RISKS PROVIDE EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE SAVE MONEY

UPPER DORCHESTER COUNTY (inside St. George DSS office) 201 Johnston Street St. George, SC 29477 843-636-9090 843-636-9099 (Fax) Business hours: 8:30 a.m. -5:00 p.m.

Wed & Thurs

**NO WALK-INS. CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT.**

Let CCHSC Help YOUR Family...

Visit www.cchscom.com to learn more about this Community Action agency.

For the latest program updates, join us on social media!

Arnold Collins, Executive Director Reba Hough-Martin, Deputy Director 843-724-6760 phone 843-724-6787 fax www.cchscom.com

OUTREACH SERVICES Charleston Water System (CWS)/

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program

General Emergency Assistance Program

Good Neighbors

(LIHEAP)

(GEAP)

This program is a partnership between Charleston Water Systems (CWS) and Charleston County Human Services Commission (CCHSC) that provides assistance with water services to CWS customers within the Tri-County area in an attempt to prevent interruption of services. Services are available all year, however, only once within a 13month period.

This program provides assistance with emergency and non-emergency energy bills to low-income residents of Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester Counties.

CCHSC ensures the program’s goal by collaborating with local energy providers SCE&G, Berkeley Electric Co-op., and other agencies to leverage funding for these programs. In addition to financial support, this program also offers air conditioner units during the Summer for qualified clients on a first-come firstserved basis by appointment only!

This program assists low-income persons with emergency needs. Individuals who receive assistance from this program must have recently had a loss of income or have some form of documented emergency need. Assistance provided under this program must address the emergency needs of the household to services, such as rent, mortgage, utilities, food and medications. This program continues year round.

Eligibility Requirements All clients must:  Be residents of Berkeley, Charleston or Dorchester County  Meet federal income guidelines  Present a state-issued picture ID with current address for applicant.  Present a legible social security cards for all household members.  Present total income for all household members within the past 30 days prior to application.  Have a disconnect notice with a past due amount. CWS can pay the last $100 of a past due account. Any amount more than the $100 that CWS will pay must be paid by the applicant prior to receiving assistance.

NOTE: Water bill MUST be in the name of the applicant.

Eligibility Requirements All clients must:  Be residents of Berkeley, Charleston or Dorchester County  Meet federal income guidelines  Present a state-issued picture ID with current address for applicant.  Present a legible social security cards for all household members.  Present total income for all household members within the past 30 days prior to application.  Provide 3 most recent energy bills.  Names must match on all documents  Agency cannot assist if there is a credit or zero balance on the account

Eligibility Requirements     

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Be residents of Berkeley, Charleston or Dorchester County Meet federal income guidelines Present a state-issued picture ID with current address for applicant.

Present a legible social security cards for all household members.

Present total income for all household members within the past 30 days prior to application.

Sustainable monthly income Delinquent bill for past 30 days Provide documentation of an emergency that affected income for all household members within the past 30 days Verification of emergency

If you have a ‘disconnect’ on your account, you MUST have a documented emergency within the past 30 days to receive assistance.

Assistance depends on program calendars, the availability of funds and appointments.

For an appointment, call during business hours to receive a call-in date to try to get an appointment.

EMPLOYMENT and EDUCATION PROGRAMS

CCHSC MISSION To serve economically disadvantaged residents of Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester Counties by increasing selfsufficiency and developing strategies to promote economic independence through partnerships.

CHARLESTON COUNTY HUMAN SERVICES COMMISSION Contact us for more information or to see if you qualify to participate in Project Pride’s programs:

Charleston County Human Services Commission

Project Pride

GET TRAINING INCREASE EMPLOYABILITY EARN MORE

Jennifer Brown Project Pride Coordinator

843-724-6760 ext. 230

1069 King Street, Charleston SC 29403 www.cchscom.com Other self-sufficiency programs offered by CCHSC...   

Asset Building Affordable Housing Youth Leadership

www.cchscom.com

Nekedra Lumar Project Pride Program Assistant

Charleston County Human Services Commission 1069 King Street, Charleston SC 29403 P.O. Box 20968, Charleston SC 29413

843-724-6760 ext. 212

Let’s get social!

‘Like’ CCHSC and Project Pride on Facebook for the latest program updates and ‘follow’ us on Twitter!

Arnold Collins, Executive Director Reba Hough-Martin, Deputy Director 843-724-6760 phone 843-724-6787 fax www.cchscom.com

EMPLOYMENT and EDUCATION PROGRAMS Project Pride Mission To increase self sufficiency and develop strategies to ensure a better quality of life. We offer supportive services to people who are currently working or in training that will lead to an increase in family income.

What is Project Pride?

Project Pride is a program for incomeeligible residents of Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester counties who have barriers that jeopardize or hinder employment.

This program provides resources to assist program participants to be successful in seeking employment, maintaining their jobs and identifying careers.

Providing participants with more opportunities to increase their education and employment marketability will result in their families becoming more economically secure.

Steps To Follow:

Services Offered to Project Pride Clients Moving Toward Their Goals:  

 

Childcare (including before and after school care) for working parents Work Support (uniforms, tools, and supplies including employment physical) for working clients Transportation (CARTA bus tickets) Tuition Assistance (GED training, training to advance marketing skills for employment, college, certification and license exams, and textbooks)

OJT (On-the-Job Training) Program participants are eligible if they…   

Lack Work Experience Are entering a new career Have been out of the Workforce for 18 months or longer

These programs have limited space and funds available.

Call 843-724-6760 ext. 230 or ext. 212 to determine eligibility and register for Orientation.

Project Pride will assist those clients that qualify for the program with obtaining their GED and Work Keys certification through training with Adult Education.

Following Orientation, Project Pride will assess your individual needs and address them accordingly.

Participation in some training programs will require a SLED background check before funds are released.

Services by APPOINTMENT ONLY!

Requirements for Project Pride program participation: * You must live in Berkeley, Charleston, or Dorchester County * You must attend an Orientation * You must meet Federal Income Guidelines * You must attend a Money Management Assessment What to Bring to Your Appointment: * Proof of income for all members of the household over age 18 * Proof of household size (social security cards, etc.) * Photo ID and Social Security card of applicant (no photocopies) * Other documents as required

Clay Hill Elementary School Jane Edwards Elementary School Harleyville Elementary School Calvary Baptist Church Cannon Street YMCA Charleston Progressive Academy Church House of Ministries Daniel Joseph Jenkins Institute for Children Alice Burney Middle School Baptist Hill High School Burke High School Burke Community School Malcolm C. Hursey Elementary School Mary Ford Elementary North Charleston High School Ladson Elementary School Timberland High School Berkeley High School Canaan Missionary Baptist Church Clemson Extension Low Country Food Bank The Sentinel Newspaper 21st Century Community Learning Center

For more information, please contact…

Jennifer Brown Employment and Education Director 843-724-6760 ext. 212 jbrown@cchscom.com Or Nekedra Lumar Employment and Education Program Assistant 843-724-6760 ext. 230 nlumar@cchscom.com

YOUTH EDUCATION ENRICHMENT

Youth Education Partner Schools and Agencies

Charleston County Human Services Commission

Youth Education Enrichment

Central Office 1069 King Street Charleston, SC 29403 Fax: 843-724-6787 www.cchscom.com

**All services are provided by appointment only.**

Volunteers are welcome!

Charleston County Human Services Commission is a private, non-profit Community Action agency. The mission is to serve the economically disadvantaged and residents of Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester Counties by increasing self-sufficiency and developing strategies to promote economic independence through partnerships.

Let CCHSC Help YOUR Family...

Let’s get social! ‘Like’ CCHSC on Facebook and ‘Follow’ us on Twitter for the latest program updates and initiatives.

Planting the Seeds of Self-Sufficiency

Arnold Collins, Executive Director Reba Hough-Martin, Deputy Director 843-724-6760 phone 843-724-6787 fax www.cchscom.com

CCHSC Charleston County Human Services Commission is committed to providing opportunities for children that will increase their chances of becoming efficient, productive citizens.

Our Education Enrichment Program reaches a wider range of children across the counties. As a member of Charleston’s Promise, our agency has pledged service to children by involving caring adults in the lives of the children in Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester Counties.

All programs and services are free of charge to those meeting the eligibility requirements.

South Carolina Youth Leadership The mission of SCYL is to systematically facilitate a statewide Youth Leadership Program that encourages and enhances character building, educational achievement, civic responsibility, and career exploration for the purpose of developing life and leadership skills in eligible youths. The program is funded by the SC Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity and is open to students in 2nd through 12th grade, attending SC schools.

School Uniforms Our agency provides school uniforms for income eligible children and those living in shelters, group homes, and transitional housing. Call for details.

Summer School Tuition Tuition vouchers are available in the Spring to assist students with a portion of summer school costs. The student must be a current high school senior in financial need who is in danger of not graduating.

Summer Youth Works!

Young adults who are high school juniors or seniors or who are current college students can participate in the Summer Youth Works! seasonal employment program. Participants gain job experience and compensation while building their resume.

Youth Leadership Summer Camp Each year the agency sponsors a free fourweek Youth Leadership summer camp for student from ages 6-12. Campers receive daily instruction from certified teachers in Math and Language Arts. Camp activities also include: arts, crafts, character education, financial literacy, etiquette, energy conservation, educational trips, career planning, speakers from various careers, physical education, health/nutritional classes, and community service performed by children.

Parenting classes are also offered.

Standard Program Requirements    

Completed, Signed Application Proof of Household Income Picture ID Social Security Card

*Additional items may be needed depending upon the program. Ask for details.*

WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

CCHSC MISSION To serve economically disadvantaged residents of Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester Counties by increasing selfsufficiency and developing strategies to promote economic independence through partnerships.

CHARLESTON COUNTY HUMAN SERVICES COMMISSION 1069 King Street Charleston, SC 29403

Charleston County Human Services Commission

Weatherization CONSERVE ENERGY LOWER UTILITY BILLS SAVE MONEY

(843) 720-5336 Fax (843) 720-5338

www.cchscom.com ‘Like’ CCHSC on Facebook and ‘Follow’ us on Twitter for the latest program updates.

Let CCHSC Help YOUR Family...

www.cchscom.com

Friday Business Hours: 8:00am-12:00pm

Charleston County Human Services Commission 1069 King Street, Charleston SC 29403 P.O. Box 20968, Charleston SC 29413

Monday-Thursday Business Hours: 7:30am-5:00pm

Arnold Collins, Executive Director Reba Hough-Martin, Deputy Director 843-724-6760 phone 843-724-6787 fax www.cchscom.com

WEATHERIZATION What is Weatherization?

Who Qualifies For Weatherization?

Eligibility Guidelines

Weatherization is a free program for individuals and families who meet income guidelines. Measures are taken to make your home more energy-efficient, thereby saving on utility costs, increasing the value of the home and improving the safety of the occupants.

Individuals and families in Charleston, Berkeley, Dorchester, Beaufort or Jasper counties meeting income guidelines can qualify for this free program.

1. Must be a resident of Charleston, Berkeley, Dorchester, Beaufort, and Jasper Counties.

2. Must meet Federal income eligibility guidelines 3. Must provide a state-issued photo ID 4. Must present total household income within the past 30 days starting with the date of application (income includes wages earned, Disability and Social Security, retirement, unemployment benefits, etc.)

5. Must provide Social Security Card for all household members 6. Must reside in a single-family dwelling

We accomplish these measures by using proven air-infiltration and insulation techniques that positively affect energy cost, as evidenced by lower energy bills.

Why Should Homes Be Weatherized?  Weatherized homes are  Program participants warmer in the Winter and cooler in the Summer

can reduce energy costs by as much as 50%

Priority is placed on homes with senior citizens, families with disabilities, children under the age of 18, and households with High Energy Usage and Energy Burdens.

Once eligibility is established, Charleston County Human Services Commission will do an assessment on the home. Depending on the outcome of the assessment, the agency will install needed weatherization measures.

The Weatherization crew will also address health and safety conditions including carbon monoxide and combustion safety.

To see if your household qualifies for this program, call 843-720-5336.

 Weatherized homes are  Energy costs are a burmore comfortable and are safer

den on low-income households

Weatherizing Can Include:  Insulation of attics,

 Furnace tune-up

 Weather stripping and

 Insulation of Hot

walls and floors caulking

 Air sealing to improve

Water Heater

WORK IN PROGRESS

Indoor Air Quality

All homes are assessed to determine necessary energy conservation measures

VITA TAX PREPARATION

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The mission of the Trident Area Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Coalition is to provide free tax preparation services and asset-building education and opportunities for all low- to moderate-income families in the tricounty area (Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester counties). The VITA Coalition provides oversight and strategic direction to the program in the tricounty area. It is composed of corporate, nonprofit and community partners. The CCHSC Asset Building department provides budgeting; credit counseling; debt management; and administers the SC Help mortgage assistance program in addition to providing free tax preparation.

CHARLESTON COUNTY HUMAN SERVICES COMMISSION www.cchscom.com ‘Like’ CCHSC on Facebook for the latest program updates and ‘follow’ us on Twitter.

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VITA Tax Preparation

in partnership with CHARLESTON TRIDENT URBAN LEAGUE and TRIDENT UNITED WAY

Charleston County Human Services Commission 1505 Greenleaf Street, Charleston SC 29405 P.O. Box 20968, Charleston SC 29413 843-720-3718 ext. 509, 515 or 512 www.cchscom.com

CCHSC Mission The mission of Charleston County Human Services Commission is to serve economically disadvantaged residents of Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester Counties by increasing selfsufficiency and developing strategies to promote economic independence through partnerships.

Charleston County Human Services Commission

VITA Tax Preparation

CCHSC Offers Taxes/Tax Credits Let our trained tax professionals help you navigate paying income taxes, filing status, tax rates, withholdings, using tax forms, exemptions and deductions, itemizing, tax credits, earned income credits, credits for children, credits for education and other important credits. With so many requirements and exceptions, figuring what you owe or if you may be eligible for a refund can be a real challenge.

How Do I Get An Appointment?

By calling 843-720-3718 ext. 515 or 512 This service is based on appointment availability and income eligibility

What Do I Need to Bring to My Appointment?

Schedule Tuesdays

Charleston County Human Services Commission 1071-A King Street Charleston, SC 29403

Wednesdays Berkeley County (Inside SC Works) 100 South Highway 52 Moncks Corner, SC 29461

OR

Who is Eligible?

Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester County Residents meeting federal income requirements. All CCHSC clients are eligible to have their taxes prepared.

THIS PROGRAM IS FREE!!!

Why pay someone to do your taxes?

Get your taxes prepared by a trained tax professional and keep more of your money in your pockets.

Tax Preparation

Dorchester County (Inside SC Works) 2885 West 5th North Street Summerville, SC 29483 Thursdays

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Dorchester County (Inside Department of Social Services) 201 Johnson Street St. George, SC 29477

YOU MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR: Earned Income Tax Credits Child Tax Credit Education Credit Savings Programs *Don’t forget to ask if you qualify for a LIHEAP utility assistance grant or other agency programs and services!*

You must have the following: 

Social Security Cards or Tax Identification Number (TIN) cards for everyone in the household you are including on your tax return.

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W-2 forms as proof of income for you and/or your spouse.

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1099 Self-Employment form (if self-employed)

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Pension or retirements statements (if any)

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Other income such as lottery winnings, awards, prizes etc. (if any)

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Last 30 days paystubs

Property Tax Statements (if any) Alimony Statement (if any) Child Care expense statement (if any) Unemployment Compensation statement (if any) Rental Income (if any) Student Loan information (if any) State issued identification card (unexpired driver’s license, I.D. card) Social Security or Railroad retirement statements (if any)

Returns Are Filed Electronically Please Allow 7 to 10 Business Days For Direct Deposit* & 3 to 4 Weeks For All Others. Thank You! *May take up to 21 days

Frequently Asked Questions About Charleston County Human Services Commission

636-9090 or 636-9099

How Do I Get Utility Assistance?

636-9090 or 636-9099

Note: This is the general process to access utilities services. For more information on how to access other programs and services, view the agency brochure.

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 If applying for utility assistance, the applicant must provide the three most recent bills in the applicant’s name; the bill must have a balance due within last 90 days. NOTE: CCHSC can’t pay for unallowable costs such as additional fees and services unrelated to energy.

 Proof of income for ALL household members for the past 30 days.

If the applicant has earnings or wages, they will need to provide their pay stub (examples are monthly, semi-monthly, bi-weekly and weekly). If the applicant receives Social Security, SSI, pensions or retirement, they will need their current year benefit award letter. If the applicant has no income, they must present a zero income history printout from the website www.mybenefits.dew.sc.gov. Income includes but is not limited to: child support (a signed statement by the payer if support is voluntary or a statement from the court if it’s courtordered); TANF/AFDC/Monthly Utility Check; SNAP; Unemployment Insurance; alimony; monthly stipends; adoption subsidies, etc. If the applicant is a business owner or self-employed, they will need the current tax year statement (example: Schedule C or C-EZ with all pages signed and included).

 Legible Social Security cards for all household members

 Legible state-issued photo ID for the applicant (name and address on ID must match what’s listed on all presented documents)

The following documents are required to complete an application for assistance:

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As of December 1, 2013, Charleston County Human Services Commission will be discontinuing the “in-progress” process for residents of Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester Counties. That means that applicants for the programs listed above must present ALL required eligibility documents at the time they check in for their appointment or they will not be seen. Applicants will then have to obtain the correct documents and schedule another appointment.

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PROGRAM CHANGES

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