How do I quickly find out what assistance programs my South Carolina family qualifies for?

The quickest starting point is calling or texting 2-1-1 South Carolina (dial 2-1-1 anytime, or text your zip code to 898-211). Specialists can screen you for multiple programs at once—food, utilities, child care, housing, and health coverage—and connect you directly to application resources in your county.

Can I apply for SNAP and Medicaid at the same time in South Carolina?

Yes. The South Carolina Department of Social Services allows you to apply for multiple benefits—including SNAP, Medicaid, and CHIP—through a combined application process online at dss.sc.gov or at any local DSS county office. Submitting one application can trigger eligibility review for several programs simultaneously.

What should I do if I'm a South Carolina parent fleeing domestic violence and need emergency shelter for my children?

Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (available 24/7, confidential) to get immediate safety planning support and referrals to shelters in South Carolina. You can also dial 2-1-1 for local emergency shelter options. SCDSS can also connect families to protective services and emergency housing resources.

Is there help for South Carolina families who are homeless or at risk of losing housing?

Yes. HUD funds Continuum of Care networks across South Carolina that provide emergency shelter, transitional housing, and rapid re-housing assistance. Local access points vary by region. Call 2-1-1 to be connected to the CoC or community action agency serving your county, as they can assess your situation and refer you to available housing programs.

Child & Family Assistance Resources in South Carolina

Last updated September 9, 2026

South Carolina families facing financial hardship, food insecurity, housing instability, or family crisis have access to a range of state and federally funded programs administered through the South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS) and partner agencies. Whether you need help with groceries, health coverage, child care costs, or emergency support, there are real options available—and you do not have to navigate them alone.

The single fastest way to find what you qualify for is to call 2-1-1 South Carolina (dial 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898-211). Trained specialists are available around the clock to connect you with local resources for food, utilities, shelter, child care, and more, in every county across the state. Many programs have online applications through the SCDSS website at dss.sc.gov and through benefitscal... HealthCare.gov for insurance coverage.

If you or someone you know is in immediate emotional crisis, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988) is available 24/7 with South Carolina-based crisis counselors. For families affected by domestic violence, the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) provides confidential support and can help identify safe shelter options statewide.

Key programs in South Carolina

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) – SC DSS

Provides monthly electronic benefits (EBT card) to help low-income individuals and families buy groceries. Eligibility is based on household size and income.

How to access: Apply online at dss.sc.gov, in person at your local DSS county office, or call 1-800-616-1309. You can also start the process through 2-1-1 South Carolina.

South Carolina Medicaid & CHIP (via SC DHHS)

Covers doctor visits, prescriptions, mental health care, dental, and more for eligible low-income children, pregnant women, parents, and individuals with disabilities. CHIP (Children's Health Insurance Program) extends coverage to children in families who earn too much for Medicaid but cannot afford private insurance.

How to access: Apply at southcarolinahealthconnection.gov or through HealthCare.gov. You can also apply at a local SCDSS office or call SC DHHS at 1-888-549-0820.

WIC (Women, Infants & Children) – SC DHEC

Provides nutritious foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals for pregnant women, new mothers, and children under age 5 who meet income guidelines.

How to access: Contact the SC Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) at 1-800-868-0404 or visit scdhec.gov/wic to find the nearest WIC clinic and schedule an appointment.

Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) – SC DSS

Helps eligible low-income working families, students, or families in job training pay for licensed child care so parents can remain employed or in school.

How to access: Apply through your local DSS county office or at dss.sc.gov. A DSS caseworker will determine eligibility based on income, family size, and work or school status. Call 1-800-616-1309 for guidance.

LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) – SC DSS

WIC Program teaches her how to breastfeed. Once she’s had her baby, WIC provides peer counseling and support as well as breast pumps and other breastfeeding supplies. Breastfeeding moms on WIC also receive more food and for a longer time period.

Cameron, Texas(254) 697-4913

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Other resources in South Carolina

Child & Family Assistance in other states

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