Post holiday giving declines, but the need remains high!

During the holidays, most charities receive the bulk of their contributions, but just because the season is over doesn’t mean the need has diminished. After the holidays many charities see a dip in donations, making the winter season difficult for non-profits.

Paul Sorensen, lead pastor at Daniel Island Fellowship said, “For churches and charities there is a big deficit in the first quarter because people have given during the holidays.”

According to Sorensen the need doesn’t stop at the end of year. That’s when it actually begins. He hopes to create the spirit of giving throughout the year.

“We encourage our people to be regular, not random in their endeavors.”

Food banks see a boost in their pantries during November and December, but they need help keeping shelves stocked every month. Lowcountry Food Bank Chief Development Officer Kathy Douglas notes, “Food insecurity is a year-round crisis in our community. The Lowcountry Food Bank works daily to feed children, seniors and families who struggle with food insecurity and financial support is needed especially during the winter months.”

There are many ways to help the food bank during the seasonal slow-down, from hosting a food drive to volunteering. Next month, the Lowcountry Food Bank will partner with some of the area’s most celebrated chefs to raise money. The 20th Annual Chefs’ Feast will be held at the North Charleston Convention Center on Feb. 10 and the funds raised will help fight childhood hunger in the 10 coastal counties of South Carolina.

Fortunately, there are numerous people in the area who work year round to help others in need. The Daniel Island Community Foundation (DICF) is a charitable vehicle made-up of Daniel Island citizens and local businesses to promote non-profit initiatives. The DICF is currently accepting suggestions for non-profits for the 2019 campaign. Residents can send recommendations by contacting Danielle Hermann of the Daniel Island Property Owners Association via email at Danielle.Hermann@dicommunity.org. Hermann dubbed the 2018 campaign a success.

“We are hoping to continue education and awareness of the yearlong campaign and anticipate participation to continue to grow each and every year,” she added.  

The Daniel Island Rotary Club is another organization that raises money throughout the year to help others in the local community. The club has already set the date for the 13th annual Charleston Duck Race. This year’s event will take place at Smythe Lake on Daniel Island on June 1. The event is put on by six area Rotary Clubs and is the major fundraiser for Daniel Island Rotary Club.

“It’s a fun event for the whole family with a chance to win cash prizes,” noted Derek Epperson, public image chair for the Daniel Island Rotary Club. “...Last year’s winner took home $10,000! The real winners, however, are the 30 plus area charities and service projects that help improve lives and build better communities.”

Over the years, the race has raised over $1.4 million dollars for area charities.