PROSPERITY, S.C. — It’s the season of giving, and a South Carolina church, Lever Chapel AME in Prosperity, is ensuring those less fortunate get a warm introduction to the holidays.
"We got handwarmers, gloves, socks, jackets, anything they can keep warm this this season, and let me tell you it brought pleasure to me," said event volunteer Beverly Wise.
She said this is the third time the church has put on an event like this, adding that it started a conversation among members and sparked interest.
“The members of the church started bringing stuff and donating; it's just a joy, and we love doing this," Wise said. "It's just something we wanted to do."
Susan Merenda lives on the streets and considers herself lucky to have access to these resources. She opened up about the challenges she faces being homeless.
“I’m 65 years old; I can’t do this anymore," she said. “A lot of people think we are trash; we are not trash. Everyone has a story; everything is different, and you know people judge us."
Wise says they were able to help more than 50 people during the clothing giveaway today.
“It's just a pleasure to see the people are enjoying and waiting on us now to get what we have, and as long as we can, we are going to continue to do it and see what happens," said Wise.
To contribute, visit Lever Chapel AME on Facebook or call Beverly Wise at 803-465-2251.
