CCSD hosts neighborhood lunch to raise student homelessness awareness

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD)– We are just a few days into the new year, and Charleston County School District (CCSD) officials are working to raise awareness among students experiencing homelessness.

Officials said it’s been a problem for quite some time, but leaders are working to improve the issue this year. 

Friday was a hopeful day for change as community leaders held a neighborhood lunch to bring awareness to children experiencing homelessness.

“Today is the first step in recognizing a severe problem with over 400 homeless students, and my understanding is from the navigation center. That’s also here: they served 800 families in need last year, and we’re homeless,” said Michele Leber, a CCSD trustee.

Organizers said nearly 90% of people experiencing homelessness are also faced with food insecurity. During the event, officials provided a warm meal to those who came. Hoping to give attendees a bit of relief.

According to officials from CCSD, over 400 students in the district are experiencing homelessness, and the impacts can be felt in the classroom.

“If they can’t feel comfortable or safe at home, then it’s going to be very difficult for them to feel comfortable and safe in their learning environments as well,” said Caroline Jewett, CCSD board member.

Officials said they hope to continue providing more support to students in and outside of the classroom who are at risk or experiencing homelessness. 

“The goal is to build more facilities to house families and develop a transitional phase where we can take the mentor shelter to a home and apartment and move them to an adequate place. And as far as education, providing job skills, drug rehab, and mental health treatment,” said Kevin Hollinshead, a CCSD Board member.

Officials ask if you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness in Charleston County schools to please visit www.ccsdschools.com