PTA Community Outreach & Support
Building connections with families and communities is at the heart of PTA. South Carolina PTA offers outreach resources and ideas to help local units increase engagement, welcome diverse voices, and create stronger partnerships with their schools and communities.
How can you help?
Check with Your Local School or District Office
Many schools have social workers, family liaisons, or counselors who can connect families with food resources, emergency assistance, and community partners. Begin by reaching out to your local schools’ admin teams to find out who to talk to about this topic.
Call 2-1-1 for Immediate Assistance
Dial 211 (or visit sc211.org) to connect with United Way’s resource line. Operators can provide information about food assistance, rent help, childcare, utilities, and other local programs.
Ask About Backpack or Weekend Meal Programs
Some schools and PTAs partner with organizations that provide weekend meals to students. If your school doesn’t have one, ask if your PTA can help start one or coordinate with local nonprofits.
Contact Your Local Food Bank or Pantry
Visit Feeding America’s South Carolina Food Bank Network to find nearby food banks. Most can direct you to local pantries, mobile food distributions, or meal programs in your area.
Visit the Department of Social Services (DSS) Website
Go to the Department of Social Services website for the latest updates about SNAP benefits, replacement benefits, and other state programs that can help fill the gap during the shutdown.
Stay Connected Through PTA and Local Networks
Your local PTA can often help connect families to resources or organize community efforts. Follow your school’s PTA and district social media pages for updates and opportunities to help or receive support.
Consider Hosting a Local Food Drive
If you want to be a resource to your local food bank or a food program in your school district, hosting a food drive can be a great way to accomplish that goal. Check out our helpful food drive guide and the customizable flyer that you can use in your PTA.
Look for Faith-Based or Community Meal Programs
Many churches and community centers host free meals or distribute grocery boxes weekly. Check your town’s Facebook pages or community bulletin boards for schedules and locations.
