Helping You Support Students & Families in Beaufort & Jasper Counties
Welcome! This page is designed just for teachers, school counselors, social workers, and other school staff who work directly with students and families. Below you’ll find quick access to free programs, tools, and services that remove barriers to learning and promote student success — all provided through United Way of the Lowcountry and our partners.
Feel free to share these resources with families in need or reach out to us directly if you have questions
Education & Student Success
Early Grade Reading & Education Impact
Learn how United Way literacy programs and volunteer tutors help over 1,300 students improve reading skills and build confidence.
Equipping Students to Succeed (Women United)
Women United provides Operation Backpack, uniforms, and emergency school support to help students stay in school and succeed.
Breaking Barriers to Education Fund
This special fund helps cover unmet needs — like eyeglasses, shoes, or transportation — that might prevent a child from attending school or learning.
Support for Families in Crisis
HELPLINE & 211 Resource Connection
Connect families with emergency help for housing, food, utilities, and more through our HELPLINE or by dialing 211.
Showers of Dignity
Access information about our mobile shower trailer providing hygiene services to those experiencing homelessness or disaster-related hardship.
Free Tax Prep (VITA)
Information to help families file taxes accurately and for free — putting more money back into their pockets. Ideal for working families, seniors, and non-English speakers.
Understanding ALICE
ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — families who are working but struggling to afford basics like housing, childcare, and transportation. They are the backbone of our community — working hard in essential jobs, yet just one unexpected expense away from crisis.
Learn more about ALICE in the Lowcountry and how it affects your students and their families:
👉 Visit www.uwlowcountry.org/ALICE »
Additional Resources
The Palmetto Heroes Program offers down payment assistance and a fixed interest rate specifically for SC home buyers working in a Palmetto Hero job role. This program is administered by the South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority. PalmettoHero.com
SC.GOV serves as South Carolina’s official portal for residents, offering access to essential services like vehicle and driver’s license registration, voter registration, tax filing and refund status, as well as social services such as Medicaid, SNAP/WIC benefits, family support programs, health assistance, and vital records requests. SC.gov
Supportive Housing Services in South Carolina, hosted by SC Housing (the South Carolina State Housing Finance & Development Authority), facilitates the development of affordable rental housing combined with voluntary support services for individuals and families with complex needs—such as disabilities or experiences of homelessness—to help them live independently in the community. schousing.sc.gov
Need More Info or Help?
Call us at 843-982-3040 | Staff Directory