COLUMBIA, S.C. — The Women’s Rights & Empowerment Network (WREN) has released the Status of Women and Girls in South Carolina, a first-of-its-kind research project that offers a detailed look at the realities facing women and girls across the state — and the opportunities to create a more equitable future.
From access to healthcare and childcare to fair pay and safe housing, the report compiles statewide and county-level data to reveal where South Carolina women and girls are struggling and where systemic changes are needed.
“We wanted to move beyond statistics and really understand the lived experiences behind the numbers,” said Dr. Amalia Luxardo, CEO of WREN. “This research is both a wake-up call and a roadmap for collective action. South Carolina can and must do better for its women, girls, and families.”
WREN launched the project to close a critical information gap. While national data offers a broad perspective, state- and county-level insights for South Carolina have been limited. This report fills that void, providing policymakers, community leaders, and advocates with data-driven tools to guide decision-making.
Key Findings
- Economic insecurity is widespread: One in three South Carolina households cannot afford basic needs such as housing, childcare, and food.
- Health outcomes are alarming: The state has one of the nation’s highest maternal mortality rates, with Black women nearly four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes.
- Childcare access is shrinking: Nearly half of all census tracts in the state are “childcare deserts,” with few or no licensed providers.
- Housing costs outpace wages: Minimum-wage earners must work more than 90 hours per week to afford a modest one-bedroom apartment.
- Geography determines opportunity: Rural and low-income counties face the steepest barriers to healthcare, education, and economic mobility.
WREN is extending the impact of the research by hosting Community Conversations — public events held across South Carolina to engage residents, share findings, and co-create solutions.
“This is about building solutions with communities, not for them,” Luxardo said. “We’re meeting people where they are, because their voices must guide the path forward.”
The Status of Women and Girls in South Carolina report serves as both a data resource and a call to action. WREN invites individuals, organizations, and policymakers to use its findings to inform conversations, investments, and advocacy efforts that lead to lasting change.
To learn more and download the full report, visit scwren.org/status-of-women-and-girls-in-sc/.