Charleston Local Assistance Programs

This page lists local organizations in Charleston, South Carolina that provide free legal help, food and social services. Statewide programs are described on the South Carolina page.

Legal aid

South Carolina Legal Services provides free civil legal assistance to eligible low-income residents of South Carolina. The Charleston office handles housing, family law, consumer issues, public benefits, and other civil matters. It does not handle criminal cases. Applications go through the statewide intake office at 1-888-346-5592.¹

Charleston Pro Bono Legal Services is a nonprofit law firm that provides free legal aid to low-income residents of Charleston County. Its practice areas include housing, domestic violence, family law, and expungements.²

Food

The Lowcountry Food Bank serves ten coastal counties of South Carolina and distributed more than 45 million pounds of food in 2024. Its pantry locator lists partner pantries and distribution events across the region.³

Social services

Palmetto Community Action Partnership offers temporary help with food, water, and shelter. Its General Emergency Assistance Program covers rent, prescription medications, disaster relief, and more for households in Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties that face an unexpected hardship. Help is limited to once per year, and appointments go through 1-844-769-6448.⁴

East Cooper Community Outreach serves neighbors who live or work east of the Cooper River. Its programs include a food pantry, a clothing closet, emergency financial assistance, and medical and dental clinics for uninsured adults who qualify by income.⁵