Ways to use South Carolina’s Tax-Free Weekend to help children in need

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – South Carolina’s Tax-Free weekend kicks off Friday, and this weekend’s discounts could stretch further to help a child in need.

Many organizations across the Lowcountry are asking for community support to ensure every student receives the necessary supplies for the new school year.

With the upcoming Tax-Free holiday, supporting the following organizations could be that much easier. Eligible items can be purchased online and in-store without paying the state’s 6% Sales Tax and any applicable local taxes during the weekend.

The City of Charleston – School Supply Drive

The City of Charleston is collaborating with the Charleston County School District and the South Carolina Aquarium for the 21st annual First Day Festival. The city is asking for school supply donations to be used in its pre-packed bags for students.

The First Day Festival is scheduled for Sunday, August 11.

School supply donations can be dropped off at the following sites:

Downtown

• 75 Calhoun Street – City of Charleston 
• Arthur Christopher Community Center – 265 President Street 
• St. Julian Devine Community Center – 1 Cooper Street 
• 23 Meeting Street- City of Charleston 

West Ashley/James Island 

• James Island Recreation Center – 1088 Quail Drive 
• Bees Landing Recreation Center – 1580 Ashley Gardens Blvd 

North Charleston/Daniel Island 

• Daniel Island Recreation Center – 160 Fairbanks Drive 

Salvation Army – School Supply Drive at Walmart

The Salvation Army and the Walmarts of Dorchester and Mount Pleasant are teaming up to collect school supplies and other necessary items for families in need.

“During this time of year, families are having to choose between school supplies, bills and food. By helping meet this need for those families we make sure that they do not have to make those tough decisions” said Captain Joshua Davis of the Salvation Army.

Shoppers can donate on August 3 at the Walmarts located at 9880 Dorchester Rd and 1481 N Highway 17. School supplies and other requested items can be dropped off inside the Salvation Army collection bins.