On October 23, 2024, Trident United Way (TUW) hosted its 2nd Annual State of Our Families event, bringing together community leaders, nonprofit partners and elected officials to confront the urgent financial challenges impacting families in the Tri-County area.
The event shared alarming insights from the most recent United for ALICE® report, showing that a family of four in Charleston County with two young children in childcare now requires an annual income of approximately $89,000 to meet basic living expenses—up from previous estimates of $60,000 just one year prior. In Berkeley and Dorchester Counties, the threshold for that same family stands at over $85,000.
“This significant increase underscores the escalating hurdles families face in securing essential needs such as housing, food, childcare, transportation and healthcare,” said President and CEO of Trident United Way DJ Hampton. “These figures represent only part of the reality, highlighting the fragile financial circumstances many of our neighbors endure.”
A key announcement during the event detailed TUW's strategic pivot from its previous focus on three pillars—Health, Education and Financial Stability—to a dedicated emphasis on Financial Security for Tri-County families. This shift reflects the organization’s commitment to supporting Tri-County families living below the ALICE threshold, streamlining resources and initiatives for greater impact.
Discussions explored the root causes of financial strain, including the discontinuation of the COVID-era Child Tax Credit, rising housing costs, the challenges of affordable childcare and inflation affecting essential goods and services.
Hampton emphasized that financial security is not guaranteed, even with multiple earners in a household. “In fact, 35% of homes with two working adults still struggle below the ALICE Threshold, illustrating the widespread nature of this challenge.”
The recent ALICE® in Focus: Children report disclosed troubling statistics, revealing that over half (53%) of children in South Carolina live in households experiencing financial instability. This includes 19% living below the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and an additional 34% who, despite being above the FPL, struggle to meet basic needs. Alarmingly, 75% of Black children, 72% of American Indian/Alaska Native children and 66% of Hispanic children are living in households facing financial hardship.
Panelists at the event discussed the broader implications of financial instability, particularly its effects on education and health. “Poverty encompasses not only financial resources but also access to education and healthcare,” stated CEO of the SC Association for Community and Economic Development Bernie Mazyck. He emphasized the importance of effective government policies and social programs, like the Child Tax Credit, which helped reduce childhood poverty rates to a historic low of 5.2% in 2021. Mazyck warned that without such interventions, childhood poverty rates could have soared to 33% in South Carolina.
Director of Housing and Community Development for the City of Charleston Geona Shaw Johnson highlighted the profound impact of financial hardship on children of color, emphasizing the need to address systemic barriers rooted in historical injustices. “As we make changes, we must pay specific attention to these areas of concern,” she said, pointing to challenges such as inadequate housing that lead to health issues like mold and pest infestations.
Principal of A.C. Corcoran Elementary School Johnathon Wideman stressed the importance of creating opportunities for both parents and students to break the cycle of generational poverty. “Many children are hesitant to attend school if they feel unkempt,” he noted, advocating for partnerships with local barber shops and salons. Wideman also highlighted initiatives like laundry services, dental and vision clinics and mentorship programs, all designed to ensure students have the resources they need to arrive at school each day ready to learn.
Founder of the Shifa Clinic Dr. Reshma Khan called for urgent action to improve access to affordable healthcare. “For those living paycheck to paycheck, a medical emergency can be devastating,” she said. Khan urged the community to implement food and nutrition support programs, expand access to free clinics and establish mobile healthcare initiatives to ensure families receive the nutritious food and medical care they need.
The panel discussion was moderated by Assistant Director of the College of Charleston's Joseph P. Riley Jr. Center for Livable Communities Ali Moriarty. “Thank you all so much for this powerful discussion. I knew you were all legends and giants in your public service, but I didn't realize how brilliant you are at being panelists,” Moriarty remarked. “There are a lot of challenges ahead, clearly, but also a lot of hope and positive, productive community work being done that we should all celebrate.”
During the event, Trident United Way also recognized outstanding community leaders for their contributions:
- Shawan Gillans, Santee Cooper, Changemaker Community Advocacy Award
- Michael Samuel, South State Bank, Changemaker Volunteer of the Year Award
- Tanger Charleston, Changemaker Power of Partnership Award
- Charleston Pro Bono Legal Services, Changemaker Part of the Community Award
Trident United Way expresses gratitude to all attendees and contributors for their dedication to enhancing the lives of families in the Tri-County community. Together, we can forge a more equitable future for all.
