Grants for Disabled People in South Carolina
South Carolina, known for its shoreline of subtropical beaches and marshlike sea islands, is also home to a diverse population that includes disabled individuals seeking support. The state offers a variety of grants and assistance programs designed to help disabled residents overcome challenges and improve their quality of life.
State Assistance
South Carolina Assistive Technology Program (SCATP)
The SCATP provides access to assistive technologies that enable disabled individuals to live more independently. From mobility aids to communication devices, the program offers both loans and direct assistance. Eligibility is based on residency and the nature of the disability. For more information, visit https://sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/medicine/centers_and_institutes_new/center_for_disability_resources/assistive_technology/index.php.
Palmetto Workforce Connections
This program focuses on helping disabled individuals find employment through job training, resume building and placement services. It caters to those who face employment barriers due to their disabilities. For further information, visit https://worklinkweb.com/en/youth/palmetto-youth-connections/.
Health Assistance for Disabled People
Healthy Connections Prime
Healthy Connections Prime is a coordinated care program that combines Medicare and Medicaid services for eligible seniors and disabled individuals. It offers comprehensive health coverage, including long-term care services. To learn more, visit https://www.scdhhs.gov/resources/health-managed-care-plans/healthy-connections-prime.
South Carolina Prescription Assistance Program (SC Rx)
SC Rx assists disabled residents in obtaining necessary medications at reduced costs or no cost. The program partners with pharmaceutical companies and local healthcare providers. Read more at https://www.welvista.org/.
Social Security
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI provides financial assistance to disabled individuals with limited income and resources. It aims to help cover basic needs such as food, clothing and shelter. To find out more information, visit https://www-origin.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-11002.pdf.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
SSDI offers benefits to disabled individuals who have accumulated sufficient work credits. It provides monthly financial support to those who cannot work due to their disability. More information is available at https://www.healthcare.gov/people-with-disabilities/ssdi-and-medicare/.
Housing and Rent Assistance for Disabled People
South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority
The South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority offers various programs to assist disabled individuals with housing needs. These include affordable rental housing, homeownership programs and housing for special needs populations. For more information, visit https://statehousingagencies.com/south-carolina/.
Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) Program
The ESG program provides funds to help individuals facing homelessness, including disabled persons, quickly regain permanent housing stability. Services include emergency shelter, rapid re-housing and homelessness prevention. For further information, visit https://oeo.sc.gov/managedsites/prd/oeo/documents/2024-2025%20NOFA.pdf.
Utility Bill Assistance for Disabled People
Energy Assistance Program (EAP)
The EAP helps low-income households, including those with disabled members, to manage costs associated with home energy bills, energy crises, weatherization and energy-related minor home repairs. To learn more, visit https://oeo.sc.gov/managedsites/prd/oeo/liheap.html.
Water Assistance Program (WAP)
WAP provides financial assistance to eligible low-income households to help with water and sewer bills. This program ensures that basic water services are accessible to all, including the disabled community. To see more information, visit https://oeo.sc.gov/managedsites/prd/oeo/lihwap.html.
Charitable Assistance Programs
The South Carolina United Way
The United Way supports a network of charitable organizations throughout South Carolina, offering various forms of assistance to disabled individuals. This includes access to education, income stability and health services. Read more at https://www.uway.org/.
The South Carolina Community Loan Fund
This fund provides financial assistance and loans to projects that benefit low-income and disabled individuals, including affordable housing and community facilities. To find out more information, visit https://sccommunityloanfund.org/.
Food and Nutrition Assistance
South Carolina Nutrition Assistance Program (SCNAP)
SCNAP offers nutritional support to disabled individuals and low-income families, ensuring they have access to healthy food. The program provides benefits that can be used to purchase food items at participating stores. For more information, visit https://www.scacog.org/supplemental-nutrition.
Meals on Wheels South Carolina
Meals on Wheels delivers nutritious meals to disabled and elderly individuals who are homebound or unable to prepare their food. This service not only provides meals but also a friendly visit and a safety check. For further information, visit https://mealsonwheelsgreenville.org/.
Transportation Assistance for Disabled People
Palmetto Breeze Transit
Palmetto Breeze Transit provides public transportation services tailored to the needs of disabled individuals, offering accessible buses and paratransit services. They offer transportation services from 4:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday through Sunday. Palmetto Breeze also has some deals, including a 10% discount on weekly and monthly passes. To learn more, visit https://www.palmettobreezetransit.com/.
Legal Assistance for Disabled People
South Carolina Legal Services (SCLS)
South Carolina Legal Services provides free legal representation and advice to low-income residents, including those with disabilities. They cover a range of civil cases, such as housing, family law and disability rights. Read more at https://sclegal.org/.
Protection and Advocacy for People with Disabilities, Inc.
This organization advocates for the legal rights of South Carolinians with disabilities. They offer services like legal representation, education and support for disability-related issues. To find out more information, visit https://www.pandasc.org/what-we-do/advocacy/.
Business Support for Disabled People
Vocational Rehabilitation Business Enterprise Program
This program empowers disabled entrepreneurs in South Carolina by providing them with training and resources to start and manage their businesses. It also offers access to government contracts and business opportunities. For more information, visit https://www.scvrd.net/.
South Carolina Small Business Development Centers (SCSBDC)
The SCSBDC offers business consulting and training services to help disabled individuals start and grow their businesses. They provide guidance on business planning, marketing, financing and more. For further information, visit https://www.scsbdc.com/.
Assistance for Disabled Veterans
South Carolina Office of Veterans Affairs
The state’s Office of Veterans Affairs assists disabled veterans with accessing benefits, healthcare and support services. They also provide information on state and federal programs available to veterans. To learn more, visit https://scdva.sc.gov/.
Veterans Upward Bound Program
This program is designed to help disabled veterans prepare for and succeed in postsecondary education. Services include academic advising, tutoring and assistance with college applications. To see more information, visit https://vpse.upenn.edu/vub/.
Assistance for Disabled Seniors
South Carolina Access and Independence Network
This network provides resources and support to help disabled seniors live independently. Services include home modifications, assistive technology and personal care assistance. Read more at https://unlockingbarriers-sc.org/.
Senior Companion Program
The Senior Companion Program pairs able seniors with disabled peers who need assistance with daily tasks, providing companionship and helping them maintain their independence. For more information, visit https://americorps.gov/serve/americorps-seniors/americorps-seniors-senior-companion-program.
