(Columbia, SC) — SC UpLift Community Outreach has been awarded a $50,000 Community Impact Grant from Richland County to fund its “Improving Financial and Homeownership Education in Richland County” initiative. This investment represents a significant step forward in addressing the housing and financial counseling needs of low- to moderate-income families across the region.
With a mission to empower individuals through educational, economic, and housing-focused programs, SC UpLift will utilize this grant to deliver vital financial literacy workshops, one-on-one housing counseling, and homebuyer education sessions to at least 55 residents of Richland County, the majority of whom are income-qualified. The initiative will catalyze economic mobility, provide residents with the knowledge and tools they need to budget wisely, manage their credit, and achieve the dream of homeownership.
“This funding could not have come at a more critical time,” said Kevin Wimberly, President/CEO at SC UpLift. “We’re seeing a rising demand for housing counseling services as more families look for pathways to stability and homeownership. Thanks to Richland County’s support, we are now positioned to expand our reach and deepen our impact.”
In collaboration with ReGenesis Community Development Corporation, a HUD Certified Housing Counseling Agency, SC UpLift will provide counseling sessions across multiple locations in Columbia, including the Ridgewood Foundation and Richland County Library branches. Sessions will feature expert instruction from industry professionals and cover topics such as fair housing rights, budgeting, credit repair, and strategies for avoiding predatory lending.
SC UpLift has a longstanding history of serving Richland County through affordable housing developments, financial counseling, and emergency home repairs. Since 2009, the organization has completed more than 300 rehabilitation and repair projects and is recognized as a Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) by Richland County.
“Investing in financial education and homeownership is investing in the long-term strength of our community,” added Anita Beasley, Accounting Manager with SC UpLift and HUD Certified Housing Counselor with ReGenesis. “This grant will help families build wealth, create stability, and pass down a legacy to future generations.”
For more information on SC UpLift and its programs, please visit www.scuplift.org or contact info@scuplift.org.
