April 8, 2020
For some families in Pickens County, the recent coronavirus outbreak has made it even harder to take care of basic needs. Many families lived paycheck to paycheck before this crisis and hovered just above the poverty line.
3.30.2020
United Way of Pickens County announced Monday that all free, in-person tax preparation appointments have been postponed indefinitely for coronavirus related reasons, including the concern for the health and safety of both volunteers and clients, the need to maintain social distancing, and the lack of space available to to hold in-person tax appointments due to the indefinite closure of the library system.
March 16, 2020
As our community and state implement plans to address the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) situation, United Way of Pickens County is rapidly assessing the most urgent needs on the ground.
United Way is coordinating services with local nonprofits and community leaders to provide support for Pickens County's most vulnerable neighbors during this critical time, such as food, shelter and access to basic healthcare needs.
3.17.2020
United Way of Pickens County announced Monday that all free tax preparation appointments previously scheduled through March 31, 2020 have been cancelled. Several factors related to the COVID-19 coronavirus led to this decision, including the closure of the Pickens County Library system through March 31.
By Julie Capaldi
January 8, 2020
PICKENS COUNTY — Whether you call it divine intervention, kismet or fate, I believe we can be lead down an unexpected path. I feel like I am propelled down a path I did not even know existed.
Michael Staton, College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences
February 5, 2020
Are people going hungry in Pickens County? Based on requests for United Way funding, calls from neighbors in need, and antidotal stories about hungry children, we would conclude, yes, hunger or “food insecurity” is an important issue in Pickens County.
How do we really know?
In July 2018, Clemson University named Dr. Leslie Hossfeld as Dean of the College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences. Her field of expertise? Food insecurity! As a new resident of the upstate, Dr. Hossfeld also wanted to understand the needs of her community.
Have you ever felt lonely? Unmotivated? Unappreciated? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I have the opportunity for YOU! Be a Reading Buddy at Camp iRock this summer!
A Reading Buddy is a volunteer who spends about 30 minutes, twice a week reading with a Camp iRock camper. You need to be patient, kind, and encouraging. In return, you will soar to rock star status in the eyes of a child. The love and adoration you will receive is immeasurable. Take it from me, you need this experience in your life.
Lately, I have been struck by the capacity of our community to care for each other. With all the crappy news out there, these tender glimpses into humanity are important to keep me going. This article reads just like a Camp iRock “chapter book.” Reading a “chapter book” is THE badge of honor for a kid who struggles with reading!
Once upon a time there was a wonderful community: It was called Pickens County.
Chapter One — The Walk