08/06/2025
Lutheran Services Carolinas (LSC) recently received a donation from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for the communities of Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, Clemson, Spartanburg and Myrtle Beach. The Church and LSC are working together to support refugee families as they rebuild their lives in South Carolina. Through this joint effort, LSCâs New Americans Program is providing emergency assistance and legal services to hundreds of individuals and families seeking stability, safety, and a fresh start.
Refugees receiving help through this initiative benefit from temporary housing assistance, food, medical support, and legal help with green cards, work authorization, and U.S. citizenshipâvital steps on the path to self-reliance.
âThis support will directly change the lives of hundreds of New Americans,â said Seth Hershberger, LSCâs New Americans South Carolina State Director. âIt allows us to respond quickly to urgent needs like rent, groceries, and medical expenses, and to offer the legal guidance needed for long-term security. We are deeply grateful for this opportunity to work with the Church of Jesus Christ, and for the sense of joy and compassion this work brings to all who are involved."
LSC has a longstanding mission to help newcomers thrive through compassionate case management, legal aid, and the dedicated efforts of volunteers.
Elder David Winters, a regional leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in South Carolina, said, âAs disciples of Jesus Christ, we are called to love and lift those around us. We are honored to support the impactful work of Lutheran Services Carolinas in blessing the lives of our new neighbors. This collaboration is a sacred opportunity to reflect the Saviorâs love through meaningful service.â
This effort reflects a shared commitment to welcoming the stranger and easing burdens with dignity and care. Together, LSC and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are helping families move forward with hope, purpose, and the tools needed to thrive.
Sarah Lewis, the outreach coordinator for LSC said, âThis family of five came to Columbia, SC as refugees about two years ago. The family received critical assistance from Lutheran Services New Americans Program in their initial resettlement and have received ongoing services throughout their time in Columbia. Despite numerous challenges, they worked hard to learn English and save up for necessities like a car. Their gracious demeanor and willingness to try new things has endeared them to everyone they meet. LSCâ s School Impact Program connected their children to opportunities for extracurricular education and socialization; their children cherished these programs and were grateful for every connection. This family has experienced deep hardship, but their determination to build a new life, while remaining kind and grateful, has been an inspiration. LSCâs New Americans team is grateful for the chance to serve refugee families and rejoice in watching our clients build a new life in America, just as so many have done before them, throughout our nationâs history. Weâre grateful for the partnership of community members, churches, and businesses who invest in this beautiful work of welcome.â
For more information on Lutheran Services Carolinas and how you can help change the lives of New Americans in our community visit lscarolinas.net.
