CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) – As part of its continued efforts to support the well-being of vulnerable Charleston residents, the Charleston Police Department has partnered with the South Carolina Department of Mental Health to launch the Unity Feed Our Well-Being program. Day Health was held. and a wellness fair.
The second annual event, held Saturday, brought together organizations and service providers in one place to help people who are unsheltered or at risk of losing their homes the additional information, referrals, and support they need. Resources are now available.
Caitlin McGarty, special operations supervisor for the Charleston-Dorchester Department of Mental Health, said the department, Charleston Police Department, Lowcountry Food Bank and Charleston Center work together to provide services to unsheltered communities every Wednesday. They were distributing fresh food, but most of them didn’t know how to make the food they were distributing.
Organizers say they hope the event will improve the quality of life for participants by offering several free services. These include mental health care, medical care, medical insurance assistance, legal assistance, housing assistance, and utility assistance.
McGarty said the number of homeless people in the community has increased significantly.
“There are over 300 people living on the streets every night in Charleston,” she said.
She added that she expects about 200 people to attend the event.
Charleston Police Officer Freddick Mallett said the event helps improve the well-being of the community.
“A lot of people don’t really know all of the resources that are available to them,” Mallett said. “Many people think of police as law enforcement, but we can provide shelter, food, clothing, and many other things. We can even provide you with the kind of assistance you need to talk to you only when you need it. ”
Charleston resident Ulysses Foreman said he heard about the incident from a neighbor and was glad to be able to get outside.
“It’s a great experience for everyone, young, middle-aged and elderly. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the fun and the food,” says Foreman.
South Carolina Legal Services, one of the nonprofits participating in the event, said they chose to participate in the event to inform local residents about the services they provide.
“We are amazed at how many people don’t know about our organization and our work. That’s why we actively participate in community outreach, spreading the word, letting people know we’re here, and And it lets people know that we’re here to serve the community,” said Zan Coakley of South Carolina Legal Services. .
The free event had something for everyone, including free food, cooking demonstrations from local chef La Gina Sanders, and entertainment for kids. It was held at Conway Park on Columbus Street from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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