The Families Helping Families holiday assistance program is a partnership between the non-profit Palmetto Project and WIS-News 10 in the Midlands. Beginning in August every year, families apply for assistance through local social service agencies who screen for eligibility. 

In 2023 Families Helping Families (FHF) in the Midlands provided assistance to more than 3,700 families in South Carolina. By coordinating with local agencies and community assistance programs we can ensure that donations and charitable giving are targeted to those who need help the most, and by eliminating duplication of services we can do more for more families in need of food, clothing, and Christmas gifts. The estimated value of this assistance is nearly $1.7 million.

Now in its 34nd year, FHF provides a business-like approach to organizing holiday giving for the neediest.

• Over the past 33 years, more than 71,000 South Carolina families have been helped at Christmas.
• Every dollar donated to FHF generates nearly $9 in goods and services for Midlands families in need.

Information for families who are in need of assistance: We are a referral program; a social service agency must approve all families applying for assistance.  Now is the time to contact the agency where the family receives assistance (DSS, Housing Authority, Disability & Special Needs Board, Mental Health, etc., or the child’s school social worker).  The application window is August 20 – September 27, which may vary at each agency. We serve families and children in the following counties:  Richland, Lexington, Newberry, and Fairfield.