[HARTSVILLE, SC April 15, 2024] – Like many states throughout the nation, South Carolina faces a foster care placement crisis. As a result, youth are sleeping in SCDSS offices or bouncing between different foster homes each night. Since they do not have a permanent foster care placement, youth are not enrolled in school and often also spend their days in DSS offices. To address this crisis, Trent Hill Center for Children & Families has launched a Day Services Program.

In partnership with South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) and Lakeview Baptist Church, the Program engages foster care youth in daily educational activities, independent living skills assistance, artistic endeavors, fieldtrips, case management, community service experiences, individual and group counseling, and physical activity. Youth also have access to shower and laundry facilities, as well as hot meals.

"We are privileged to serve these youth through our organization,” said Becky Hill, Associate Director at Trent Hill Center. "Recognizing the unique challenges faced by these youth who are bouncing between different places each night, our program is designed to provide them with not only the resources, guidance, and encouragement they need, but a stable, predictable environment.”

Key priorities of the Day Services Program includes:

Educational Support: Experiential learning outside of a classroom allows youth to continue learning during their time of transition.

Independent Living Skills Development: Workshops and activities focused on essential life skills such as budgeting, cooking, and job readiness help youth build confidence and independence.

Recreational Activities: A variety of recreational activities, including sports, arts and crafts, and cultural outings, are offered to promote socialization and healthy living.

Mental Health Resources: Access to a licensed counselor to provide individual and group counseling sessions, as well as crisis intervention services, ensures youth have the mental health support they need.

The Day Services Program at Trent Hill Center runs Monday through Friday from 7 am – 7pm. Partnership opportunities are available. For more information, please contactmia.thomas@trenthillcenter.org.