Posts by Shannon Simmons
Cathy Kovacs
Cathy Kovacs is a Program Manager for South Carolina’s Quality Rating and Improvement System, Division of Early Care and Education at South Carolina Department of Social Services. She has over 25 years’ experience in the field of early care of education and has a Masters of in Early Childhood Education from the University of South…
Read MoreFood Programs For Kids: Nourishing Communities Year-Round
Easy access to food programs for kids is vital to fostering healthy communities. Like SC Thrive, organizations nationwide are dedicated to providing food assistance to those in need, particularly during the summer months and beyond. Let’s discuss the significance of summer meals, free or reduced school meals, after-school meals, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program…
Read MoreSNAP & Farmer’s Markets: Save on Fresh Produce
SNAP benefits can help you buy fresh produce at farmer’s markets. There’s nothing quite like bringing home fresh fruits and vegetables for your family to enjoy, especially during summer. If you already receive SNAP benefits or are considering applying, remember these resources before your next trip to the market! SNAP Benefit Basics The Supplemental Nutrition…
Read MoreMidlands Gives 2023: The Day of Generosity That Provides Year-Round Supports
The countdown to Midlands Gives 2023 is on! This year’s Midlands Gives Day is held on May 2, 2023. Midlands Gives serves as a celebration of philanthropy, allowing people statewide to invest directly in their communities by supporting the nonprofit organizations that are vital to help strengthen our region. Since the conception of Midlands Gives…
Read MoreWhy Partnership Matters: The Importance of Collaboration
Why does Partnership matter? Service Providers, Partner Agencies, and Clients share a vital connection that keeps the social care sector thriving. Working for nonprofits provides a sense of camaraderie in the field. Even though each organization has an area of focus, we are all trying to do beneficial work and contribute to the common good.…
Read MoreTax Refund Changes You’ll See in 2023
Tax season has officially begun. This year, you may see some changes — many of the pandemic tax benefits due to COVID-19 and its economic hardships expired. The IRS has warned that 2023 refunds may be smaller. Some people who expect to get money back may end up owing the government instead. Taxpayers should avoid…
Read MoreCelebration, Education, & the Impact of Heart Health in Minority Communities
As this month comes to a close, let’s reflect on how the second month of the year plays a significant role in our everyday lives. February is known as a month of celebrations of love, and hearts will be decorating offices and schools across the country. Love for your neighbors, family, and friends abound in…
Read MoreBlack History Month & Beyond: Why Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Matters for Social Care Organizations
Black History Month is a special time for us to recognize the countless contributions made by African Americans and take a moment to reflect inward on whether our actions honor their history respectfully. As a nonprofit people-serving organization, we encourage you to take a moment to consider the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion within your…
Read MoreEasy, Free Online Tax Filing Through Thrive Hub
Tax season has begun. Though preparing for taxes may get stressful, SC Thrive is here to assist you with an easy and secure tax filing experience! Filing through Thrive Hub offers eligible South Carolinians the option to file online for FREE. Before starting the filing process, you should gather all the documents with your…
Read MoreHow the New Year May Affect Your SNAP Benefits: An Emergency Allotment Update
SNAP emergency allotments helped South Carolina families afford food during the pandemic. As we continue to navigate post-pandemic life in 2023, there are some important updates to SNAP benefits that families need to know. South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS) recently announced an end to the federally-approved Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) emergency allotments…
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