Discover Reliable, Effective Legal Help for Real Estate Closings in South Carolina

Real Estate Law in North Charleston, SC

As Sarah prepared to close on her dream home in South Carolina, she felt a rush of excitement, envisioning a new life in a new home in North Charleston. However, in her eagerness, she overlooked the crucial step of hiring a real estate attorney. Unbeknownst to her, navigating the complexities of real estate transactions without legal guidance could lead to significant pitfalls. Without an attorney, she risked missing essential details in the contract, encountering unexpected fees, or facing issues with property liens that could jeopardize her investment. As Sarah soon discovered, the intricacies of South Carolina real estate law are best navigated with professional help to ensure a smooth and legally sound closing process.

The truth is that buying, selling, and managing real estate involves many moving parts and often represents the most complex and important investments most people ever make. Real estate closings in North Charleston, SC. are rarely black and white - they require an experienced, detail-oriented eye to examine specifics and protect you as the buyer or seller. That's where Cobb Hammett real estate attorneys come into play. We offer comprehensive, efficient, and high-level legal services regarding all facets of real estate and property issues - from closings and refinances to litigation over property disputes and more.

Before we dive into a few areas of our legal real estate expertise, let's examine real estate law in South Carolina, so you can build your knowledge and make an educated purchase decision.

Real Estate Closing North Charleston, SC

Your Guide to Residential Real Estate Law in North Charleston, SC.

Handling paperwork that needs to be completed promptly and navigating legal issues can be daunting for homeowners in South Carolina who are looking to buy or sell a home. According to data from the South Carolina Realtors, real estate deals in the Charleston area are on the rise, with a 3% increase in single-family closed sales and an impressive 20% rise in townhouse-condo closed sales.

The more you know about real estate law and real estate closings in The Palmetto State, the better off you'll be when it comes time to finally buy or sell your home. Let's take a closer look at a few key elements of residential real estate in South Carolina, including:

  • Real Estate Contracts and Transactions in South Carolina
  • South Carolina Foreclosures
  • Property Rights and Eminent Domain Issues in South Carolina
  • Relationships Between Landlords and Tenants in South Carolina
  • Land Use and Zoning Laws in South Carolina
Real Estate Attorney North Charleston, SC

Real Estate Contracts and Transactions in South Carolina

In South Carolina, real estate transactions are required to adhere to the Statute of Frauds, which stipulates that all contracts related to real estate must be documented in writing to be enforceable. These agreements generally encompass contracts for purchase, sale, and leases that extend beyond one year. It is crucial to ensure that your contract accurately represents the terms of your agreement to prevent any disputes in the future.

Furthermore, South Carolina law requires sellers to disclose any known defects in residential properties. This disclosure is usually made using the South Carolina Residential Property Condition Disclosure Statement. Neglecting to provide accurate information can lead to legal repercussions, like canceling home closings in North Charleston, SC., or pursuing lawsuits for damages.

South Carolina Foreclosures

South Carolina operates as a judicial foreclosure state, which requires lenders to utilize the court system for property foreclosures. This procedure involves initiating a lawsuit, informing the borrower, and securing a court order to move forward with the sale of the property. Borrowers have the option to contest the foreclosure in court or pursue alternative solutions like loan modifications or short sales. It is essential for both borrowers and lenders to have a clear understanding of their rights and responsibilities during foreclosure proceedings.

Property Rights and Eminent Domain Issues in South Carolina

Eminent domain refers to the government's authority to seize private property for public purposes, like constructing roads or schools. In South Carolina, owners of property have the right to receive just compensation if their property is taken under eminent domain. Conflicts frequently arise regarding the compensation amount offered or the validity of the government's claim. If you are confronted with an eminent domain situation, contacting a real estate attorney can help safeguard your rights and ensure you obtain fair compensation.

Relationships Between Landlords and Tenants

The South Carolina Landlord-Tenant Act oversees rental agreements and tenants' and landlords' rights and responsibilities. The key provisions you should know about include the following:

  • Notice Requirements: Tenants have to give notice before they vacate a property. Landlords have to give notice before they enter a unit they're renting, except in emergency situations.
  • Security Deposits: Landlords have to return any security deposit within 30 days of when the tenant's lease ends, minus charges for unpaid rent or damages to the property.
  • Habitability and Repairs: Landlords have to keep rental properties habitable and safe. When a landlord fails to meet this mandate, tenants may be able to take legal action.

Conflicts between property owners and renters frequently occur regarding security deposits, maintenance issues, or eviction processes. Familiarizing oneself with these legal guidelines can assist both sides in settling disputes peacefully or taking necessary legal measures.

Land Use and Zoning Laws in South Carolina

Zoning rules significantly influence how properties may be utilized. These regulations determine if a property can be designated for residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural use. Zoning laws also govern factors like building heights, setbacks, and the kinds of structures allowed on a property. Before entering a real estate closing in South Carolina - especially for buying a home or a piece of land - it's very important to review local zoning ordinances to ensure adherence to relevant regulations. After all, disputes regarding zoning can result in expensive delays or even necessitate changes to your development plans.

The Importance of Hiring an Attorney for Real Estate Closings in North Charleston, SC.

South Carolina is one of 22 states in the US that mandates attorney supervision for real estate closings. In fact, it's one of the few states where the attorney must be physically present during the closing process.

When buying a home, it's important to be aware of all associated costs, which might lead you to consider the least expensive legal representation. However, it's wise to take your time and look for an experienced real estate lawyer in South Carolina for several reasons. Real estate laws in South Carolina are designed to protect you. However, real estate transactions and closings are often complex, and the average buyer may not fully grasp all the intricacies involved without professional guidance.

Moreover, the role of a real estate attorney extends far beyond just clarifying the terms of the contract before you finalize the sale. A skilled South Carolina real estate lawyer will thoroughly investigate any potential issues and ensure you secure the most favorable terms for your home purchase.

Let's look at just a few reasons why you need a real estate lawyer when you're buying or selling a home in South Carolina. Not just because the law demands it - but because it's in your best interests to do so.

Property Title Search North Charleston, SC

If you've bought property in different states, don't presume that your experience in South Carolina will be the same. Real estate regulations differ from one state to another. For instance, while South Carolina does not mandate a comprehensive home inspection, it does require a termite inspection. Additionally, unlike many other states, a lawyer must supervise all real estate closings in South Carolina. Under South Carolina law, a lawyer is required to assist both the buyer and seller in the following circumstances:

  • Address any title issues (liens, judgments, unpaid taxes, mortgage debts).
  • Outline easements and rights-of-way for access to the property.
  • Complete and sign necessary documents as mandated by state law.
  • Submit these documents to the relevant government agency
  • Make payments according to the terms of the purchase agreement.

This is not an easy procedure. Fortunately, working with a knowledgeable real estate attorney in North Charleston, SC. from Cobb Hammett LLC helps ensure that every step is executed correctly - safeguarding your financial and legal interests.

Commercial Real Estate Closing North Charleston, SC

Refinancing typically involves the rearrangement of a mortgage. In effect, this means replacing an old mortgage with a new one. Many homeowners in South Carolina choose to refinance their mortgages to reduce their interest rates, shorten their repayment terms, or capitalize on the equity they have accumulated.

With that said, a lawyer's oversight is necessary for closing on a home refinance. The mortgage will be tied to the property and influence the title. After the refinancing documents are signed, a knowledgeable real estate attorney will verify that the lender obtains all original documents, that the new mortgage is registered, and that all title policies are prepared to align with the loan obligations. At Cobb Hammett LLC, we always adhere to South Carolina consumer home loan laws to ensure that all refinancing processes comply with state regulations and standards.

Home Purchase Legal Review North Charleston, SC

In accordance with the South Carolina Consumer Protection Code, the buyer normally selects the closing attorney. This ensures that the attorney provides the buyer with a clear title to the property as intended. Realtors and lenders must respect the buyer's decision regarding the closing attorney.

At Cobb Hammett, LLC, our firm treats both the buyer and seller equally throughout the transaction process, offering assistance to both parties. Furthermore, the attorney maintains neutrality and will not advocate for either the buyer or the seller in the event of a dispute regarding the closing procedures of the home.

Refinancing Mortgage Attorney North Charleston, SC

Typically, both the Buyer and Seller will be present at the closing unless documents have been signed ahead of time or remotely. The Buyer and Seller will individually review and sign the necessary documents. It's important to note that if a husband and wife jointly own property in both of their names, both parties must attend the closing. Realtors often choose to attend the closing as well, and sometimes, loan officers may be present, too.

Zoning Land Use Attorney North Charleston, SC

Regardless of whether you're the buyer or seller, you should have two valid forms of identification. Usually, a driver's license and a Social Security card will suffice. You can also present other types of government-issued identification, such as a passport, military ID, or voter registration. The buyer must bring sufficient funds to close the deal in the form of certified funds. Of course, the seller must bring the keys to the property. You might be surprised at how often this last step doesn't happen - most often by accident.

Real Estate Closing North Charleston, SC

We should state upfront that every real estate law firm in South Carolina may have different fees and pricing structures. At Cobb Hammett, LLC, we provide transparent pricing information for every client who walks through our doors. With that said, residential real estate closing lawyers usually charge a flat fee for handling the closing process. Typically, this fee amounts to several hundred dollars, and in some cases, it can exceed $1,000.

Many clients only interact with their real estate closing attorney during the actual closing and may question the reasons behind the fees. However, there is a significant amount of work that closing attorneys must complete in preparation for the closing to ensure the proper transfer of property from sellers to buyers.

To begin, your closing attorney will conduct a title search to verify the status of the property. The title search will confirm that the seller holds complete ownership of the property and is authorized to transfer it to the buyer. The title search will also reveal any easements, encroachments, or other restrictions that may affect the property. The attorney will also draft a title opinion to be provided to a title company. This document is used if the buyer decides to obtain title insurance.

Residential Property Lawyer North Charleston, SC

The role of a closing attorney extends beyond the closing meeting. After the closing, they update the title on the local registry of deeds and record the deed and mortgage, if applicable. They are also responsible for disbursing fees such as brokerage fees, taxes, loan payoffs, seller proceeds, insurance premiums, and inspection fees.

If issues arise after the transaction, the closing attorney may help resolve them. Their guidance is essential for a smooth ownership transfer and ensuring all legal requirements are understood by the parties.

Real Estate Attorney North Charleston, SC

Understanding the Process of Real Estate Closings in South Carolina

If you've bought property in different states, don't presume that your experience in South Carolina will be the same. Real estate regulations differ from one state to another. For instance, while South Carolina does not mandate a comprehensive home inspection, it does require a termite inspection. Additionally, unlike many other states, a lawyer must supervise all real estate closings in South Carolina. Under South Carolina law, a lawyer is required to assist both the buyer and seller in the following circumstances:

  • Address any title issues (liens, judgments, unpaid taxes, mortgage debts).
  • Outline easements and rights-of-way for access to the property.
  • Complete and sign necessary documents as mandated by state law.
  • Submit these documents to the relevant government agency
  • Make payments according to the terms of the purchase agreement.

This is not an easy procedure. Fortunately, working with a knowledgeable real estate attorney in North Charleston, SC. from Cobb Hammett LLC helps ensure that every step is executed correctly - safeguarding your financial and legal interests.

Property Title Search North Charleston, SC

Do You Need a Real Estate Attorney for Refinances in South Carolina?

Refinancing typically involves the rearrangement of a mortgage. In effect, this means replacing an old mortgage with a new one. Many homeowners in South Carolina choose to refinance their mortgages to reduce their interest rates, shorten their repayment terms, or capitalize on the equity they have accumulated.

With that said, a lawyer's oversight is necessary for closing on a home refinance. The mortgage will be tied to the property and influence the title. After the refinancing documents are signed, a knowledgeable real estate attorney will verify that the lender obtains all original documents, that the new mortgage is registered, and that all title policies are prepared to align with the loan obligations. At Cobb Hammett LLC, we always adhere to South Carolina consumer home loan laws to ensure that all refinancing processes comply with state regulations and standards.

Commercial Real Estate Closing North Charleston, SC

Who Picks the Lawyer for Real Estate Closings in North Charleston, SC.?

In accordance with the South Carolina Consumer Protection Code, the buyer normally selects the closing attorney. This ensures that the attorney provides the buyer with a clear title to the property as intended. Realtors and lenders must respect the buyer's decision regarding the closing attorney.

At Cobb Hammett, LLC, our firm treats both the buyer and seller equally throughout the transaction process, offering assistance to both parties. Furthermore, the attorney maintains neutrality and will not advocate for either the buyer or the seller in the event of a dispute regarding the closing procedures of the home.

Home Purchase Legal Review North Charleston, SC

Which Parties Need to Attend Home Closings in South Carolina?

Typically, both the Buyer and Seller will be present at the closing unless documents have been signed ahead of time or remotely. The Buyer and Seller will individually review and sign the necessary documents. It's important to note that if a husband and wife jointly own property in both of their names, both parties must attend the closing. Realtors often choose to attend the closing as well, and sometimes, loan officers may be present, too.

Refinancing Mortgage Attorney North Charleston, SC

What Should Home Buyers and Sellers Bring to South Carolina Real Estate Closings?

Regardless of whether you're the buyer or seller, you should have two valid forms of identification. Usually, a driver's license and a Social Security card will suffice. You can also present other types of government-issued identification, such as a passport, military ID, or voter registration. The buyer must bring sufficient funds to close the deal in the form of certified funds. Of course, the seller must bring the keys to the property. You might be surprised at how often this last step doesn't happen - most often by accident.

Zoning Land Use Attorney North Charleston, SC

Fees Associated with Home Closings in City, State

We should state upfront that every real estate law firm in South Carolina may have different fees and pricing structures. At Cobb Hammett, LLC, we provide transparent pricing information for every client who walks through our doors. With that said, residential real estate closing lawyers usually charge a flat fee for handling the closing process. Typically, this fee amounts to several hundred dollars, and in some cases, it can exceed $1,000.

Many clients only interact with their real estate closing attorney during the actual closing and may question the reasons behind the fees. However, there is a significant amount of work that closing attorneys must complete in preparation for the closing to ensure the proper transfer of property from sellers to buyers.

To begin, your closing attorney will conduct a title search to verify the status of the property. The title search will confirm that the seller holds complete ownership of the property and is authorized to transfer it to the buyer. The title search will also reveal any easements, encroachments, or other restrictions that may affect the property. The attorney will also draft a title opinion to be provided to a title company. This document is used if the buyer decides to obtain title insurance.

Real Estate Closing North Charleston, SC

What Does a Lawyer Do After a Real Estate Closing in South Carolina?

The role of a closing attorney extends beyond the closing meeting. After the closing, they update the title on the local registry of deeds and record the deed and mortgage, if applicable. They are also responsible for disbursing fees such as brokerage fees, taxes, loan payoffs, seller proceeds, insurance premiums, and inspection fees.

If issues arise after the transaction, the closing attorney may help resolve them. Their guidance is essential for a smooth ownership transfer and ensuring all legal requirements are understood by the parties.

Commercial Real Estate Services at Cobb Hammett, LLC

Commercial real estate transactions are distinct from residential real estate dealings in several aspects. Generally, commercial real estate provides less protection for purchasers while enabling more extensive negotiation and deal-making. Due to this dynamic, enlisting a knowledgeable attorney to represent you can be extremely beneficial and can help safeguard your legal and financial interests.

Residential Property Lawyer North Charleston, SC

Our team of seasoned real estate attorneys has experience supporting clients in a wide array of commercial closing issues, including:

  • Escrow
  • Creating Legal Entities
  • Assisting During Due Diligence
  • Title and Closing Paperwork
  • Purchase and Sale Contract Drafting and Execution

Commercial real estate closings in South Carolina require a significant amount of documentation, legal formalities, and terminology that can be daunting and confusing for buyers and sellers in real estate. If you require document reviews, assistance in forming a legal entity to facilitate the commercial real estate buying process, or help with negotiating the real estate purchase, Cobb Hammett is ready to assist.

The Trusted Choice for Real Estate Law in North Charleston, SC.

At Cobb Hammett, we take pride in assisting clients from diverse backgrounds as they manage real estate transactions, including purchases, sales, and refinancing. As a premier real estate law firm located in Charleston, South Carolina, we provide tailored, high-quality legal services for residential and commercial closings and more. We champion your best interests, making certain that you do not enter into any agreements that could compromise your financial or legal standing.

As your dedicated real estate law attorney, we provide reliable representation for matters like:

  • Preparing Loan Documents
  • Reviewing Sale Contracts
  • Completing Title Searches
  • Supervising Closing Document Execution
  • Verify That All Applicable Documents are Recorded and Indexed Correctly

If you're in search of a proactive, effective real estate attorney who addresses every aspect of your residential or commercial closing in South Carolina, look no further than Cobb Hammett, LLC. Contact our office today with your questions or real estate pain points. We'll take the time to listen and will recommend a tailored approach to your legal real estate needs.

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Latest News in North Charleston, SC

Second Harbor Logistics North Charleston Facility Earns Operation Clean Sweep Logistics Verification for Preventing Resin Loss in Operations and Protecting the Environment

CHARLESTON, S.C.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Harbor Logistics, a leading provider of integrated logistics solutions, has earned Operation Clean Sweep® (OCS) Logistics verification, based on successfully executing a series of actions designed to eliminate potential plastic pellet loss during transport, packaging and storage for its facility at 4033 W. Montague Avenue, North Charleston, SC. OCS, which was founded by Plastics Industry Association in 1991 and is managed in partnership with the American Chemistry Council’s Plastics Divi...

CHARLESTON, S.C.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Harbor Logistics, a leading provider of integrated logistics solutions, has earned Operation Clean Sweep® (OCS) Logistics verification, based on successfully executing a series of actions designed to eliminate potential plastic pellet loss during transport, packaging and storage for its facility at 4033 W. Montague Avenue, North Charleston, SC. OCS, which was founded by Plastics Industry Association in 1991 and is managed in partnership with the American Chemistry Council’s Plastics Division, is a program that supports companies in their goals toward achieving zero plastic resin loss in operations.

Harbor Logistics’ North Charleston operation is 120,000 sq. ft., employs 60 team members and stores a wide variety of commodities, from yarn and medical supplies to canned fruit and fencing.

This marks the second Harbor Logistics distribution center to earn OCS verification, after the Moncks Corner, SC, facility received the designation in July. Both locations feature a comprehensive range of logistics services designed to optimize supply chains and reduce client costs.

“The entire organization at Harbor’s 4033 facility is proud to earn this certification. We want to be known as an environment-friendly operation and the OCS process is a critical step in our efforts to eliminate plastic pellet loss risk,” said Drew McCall, Vice President of Warehousing for Harbor Logistics.

Harbor Logistics earned OCS verification at its two facilities by completing the following activities:

About Harbor Logistics Based in Charleston, S.C., Harbor Logistics provides transportation, truck/rail transload and warehousing services to a wide range of industrial and commercial counterparties. As the largest drayage provider and one of the largest warehouse providers in Charleston, Harbor offers supply chain capacity via an asset-based model that provides a tailored customer experience. Growth-focused, the Harbor team is dedicated to exceeding expectations, working with like-minded partners, and exemplifying ethical decision making.

Contacts

Ron Margulis

RAM Communications

[email protected]+1.908.337.0020

North Charleston interchange project expected to alleviate traffic will open to the public

NORTH CHARLESTON — The wait for the interchange on Interstate 26 between Ashley Phosphate Road and U.S. Highway 78 is over.Charleston County has completed construction for the Palmetto Commerce Interchange, which is intended to enhance commutes by reducing travel times and increasing mobility, says county project manager Mackenzie Kelley.It will open to the public Nov. 17 after a ribbon cutting ceremony at 1 p.m.Located between U.S. Highway 78 and Ashley Phosphate Road, the diamond interchange will connect Weber Bo...

NORTH CHARLESTON — The wait for the interchange on Interstate 26 between Ashley Phosphate Road and U.S. Highway 78 is over.

Charleston County has completed construction for the Palmetto Commerce Interchange, which is intended to enhance commutes by reducing travel times and increasing mobility, says county project manager Mackenzie Kelley.

It will open to the public Nov. 17 after a ribbon cutting ceremony at 1 p.m.

Located between U.S. Highway 78 and Ashley Phosphate Road, the diamond interchange will connect Weber Boulevard in the Ingleside tract with Interstate 26. The design doesn't extend Weber Boulevard into North Charleston's neighborhoods on the eastern side of the interstate, but on- and off-ramps from the westbound lane will guide traffic to and from the Ingleside development via Weber Boulevard.

The interchange will connect I-26 directly to Palmetto Commerce Parkway and plans also include a 10-foot bike and pedestrian path along Weber Boulevard from Ingleside Boulevard to Salamander Drive, crossing I-26.

The project was completed ahead of schedule, as county officials initially expected to finish the interchange in early 2026.

Construction started in August 2023, and the total project cost is nearly $90 million. It was funded by the 2016 transportation sales tax.

While the project has been generally met with support — North Charleston residents said they looked forward to the new and accessible bike path — residents have raised concerns about traffic noise the interchange will bring.

A sound barrier is outside the county’s scope of work, but the county conducted noise studies that specifically analyzed the Northwood Estates area using models that predicted noise through 2040.

The study determined that a sound barrier does not meet the state Department of Transportation’s Traffic Noise Abatement Policy criteria, so DOT would not approve the construction of one.

Residents of Northwood Estates previously told The Post and Courier that they have asked for a sound barrier for years. North Charleston City Councilwoman Stephanie Ganaway-Pasley, who represents the district Northwood Estates is in, has met with local representatives and state leaders to continue the push for a sound barrier.

She previously told The Post and Courier she thinks the best option would be to construct a 25-foot-tall concrete wall, compared to a wood or metal barrier. Ganaway-Pasley estimates the barrier to cost around $17 million and would have to be a collaborative effort among the city, county and state.

New Cristo Rey Charleston High School gets city approval for renovation

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - The City of North Charleston has approved the next steps for a new high school that will renovate the former Chicora Elementary School building.Metanoia, a local nonprofit, has worked on plans for the Cristo Rey Charleston High School for years despite setbacks, including a fire in 2020 that destroyed the historic auditorium.“We’re about to start construction back in 2020. The building had a big fire. We had to go through a long insurance claim and now we’re back at the place of...

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - The City of North Charleston has approved the next steps for a new high school that will renovate the former Chicora Elementary School building.

Metanoia, a local nonprofit, has worked on plans for the Cristo Rey Charleston High School for years despite setbacks, including a fire in 2020 that destroyed the historic auditorium.

“We’re about to start construction back in 2020. The building had a big fire. We had to go through a long insurance claim and now we’re back at the place of finally being able to close on construction and get started with this major project for the neighborhood here,” CEO of Metanoia Bill Stanfield said.

Cristo Rey will serve lower-income students who attend classes four days a week and participate in internships at local businesses one day a week.

“By the time they graduate high school, they’ve already got four years of professional experience of working through these internships,” Stanfield said.

The building has been empty since 2012. Plans call for preserving historical elements during renovation.

“This building just has such a rich history in North Charleston. It served, the first wing of it was built in the 1930s. So many people and families came through this building. So many young people went to school here,” Stanfield said.

The North Charleston City Council provided a statement on the redevelopment project.

“This City is excited to see this project finally come to life after many hurdles including a devastating fire that destroyed the historic auditorium. The auditorium will be rebuilt as part of the creation a new campus for Christo Rey, an innovative college and career-preparatory school that exclusively serves students from families with limited economic resources.”

Stanfield said the school aligns with Metanoia’s mission.

“We deploy a strategy of listening constantly, walking with families to discover their strengths and release their brilliance all the while kind of rejecting the barriers that they may face every day,” Stanfield said.

Construction is set to begin in December, with the school scheduled to open in August 2027.

For more information about the school, you can visit here.

'Safety Town' coming to North Charleston, teach kids life-saving lessons through play

Children interacting with community partners at 2024 "Safety Town" (provided)NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — This weekend, MUSC Children’s Health is teaming up with local first responders to keep kids safe and have some fun while doing it.The event, called “Safety Town,” is free for the community and part of a national effort to raise awareness about childhood injuries, one of the leading causes of death among children across the country. It also comes ahead of National Injury Prevention Day, r...

Children interacting with community partners at 2024 "Safety Town" (provided)

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — This weekend, MUSC Children’s Health is teaming up with local first responders to keep kids safe and have some fun while doing it.

The event, called “Safety Town,” is free for the community and part of a national effort to raise awareness about childhood injuries, one of the leading causes of death among children across the country. It also comes ahead of National Injury Prevention Day, recognized nationwide on Tuesday, Nov. 18.

On Saturday, Nov. 15, children in Charleston will get the chance to hop on a tricycle and ride through a miniature city, complete with a fire station, police department, school, and hospital. Along the way, they’ll learn about safety and meet the community partners who help keep families safe every day.

“It just helps us kind of shine a light on the injury prevention work that we do,” said Mary Beth Vassy, MUSC Health Pediatric Trauma Injury Prevention coordinator. “But also how important it is to make sure that we are talking with families and trying to work with them to prevent injuries in our communities for our children.”

Vassy says the event highlights a serious issue seen often inside MUSC’s trauma center.

“We see preventable injuries come into our trauma center all the time,” she said. “Oftentimes they do have to do with bicycle accidents, car wrecks, things like that. So this day is really important for us, especially because we are a member site of the organization that founded National Injury Prevention Day, which is the Injury Free Coalition for Kids. So we really like to highlight this day as a member organization, but also because we know that this is affecting our community.”

The event – hosted by MUSC Children’s Health, the Injury Free Coalition for Kids, and Safe Kids Charleston Area – will also include local first responders and community partners who’ll talk with families about their roles in keeping kids safe.

“We have community partners who kind of represent each of the places in Safety Town, so they can talk to the kids more in depth about what their roles are and kind of what that looks like in their specific area,” Vassy explained.

READ MORE | "Charleston officials prioritize pedestrian safety with traffic area DUI checkpoints plan."

From bike safety to everyday decision-making, the goal is to give kids practical tools for staying safe.

“We’re hoping that kids and families just kind of get a better understanding of how to keep themselves safe in different ways around the community,” Vassy said. “We’re also hoping that we can provide bike helmets to some kids who need them, because we know that oftentimes we have kids who are injured on bicycles that come into our hospital that didn’t have helmets on.”

The event will also feature free bike helmets, face painting, local mascots, and plenty of hands-on learning.

“We do have the free bike helmets, we have free face painting,” Vassy added. “We also have some appearances by some local mascots, which will be exciting — along with just some other great community resources that are available.”

“Safety Town” takes place Saturday, Nov. 15, at the North Charleston Athletic Complex at 1455 Monitor St., North Charleston, SC 29405, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. It’s free and open to everyone, though registration in advance is encouraged.

Anyone interested in attending should email [email protected].

The North Charleston Community Resource Center and Charleston Labor Council are leading efforts to provide care packages filled with chicken, fresh fruits, vegetables, bread and nonperishables for federal workers who continue working without pay.

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - Many federal workers are missing their second paycheck as the government shutdown comes to an end, prompting community organizations across the Lowcountry to organize food drives for affected families.The North Charleston Community Resource Center and Charleston Labor Council are leading efforts to provide care packages filled with chicken, fresh fruits, vegetables, bread and nonperishables for federal workers who continue working without pay.“We’re getting phone calls and phone calls...

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - Many federal workers are missing their second paycheck as the government shutdown comes to an end, prompting community organizations across the Lowcountry to organize food drives for affected families.

The North Charleston Community Resource Center and Charleston Labor Council are leading efforts to provide care packages filled with chicken, fresh fruits, vegetables, bread and nonperishables for federal workers who continue working without pay.

“We’re getting phone calls and phone calls and emails after emails. A federal worker saying, ‘I don’t have. I don’t know where to turn to,’” April Lott, the Charleston Labor Council president, said.

Organizations are gathering food donations by the truckload as federal workers struggle to keep up with grocery bills while they have been maintaining their duties at locations like the airport.

Food banks are already stretched thin because of the lapse in benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Banks across the Lowcountry are looking to ease as much food and financial uncertainty as much as they can.

Organizations wanted to create something specifically for federal workers, Lott said.

“A lot of food banks are stretched thin with the loss of SNAP benefits as well. But we wanted to do something just for our federal workers to let them know that their community supports them as they support us,” Lott said.

The Charleston Labor Council has held previous food drives with lines wrapped around the building to help those impacted by the loss of SNAP benefits. Based on calls and emails alone, Lott expects between 500 and 600 federal workers to seek assistance.

Residents can donate food at the Community Resource Center until the end of the day Thursday. Volunteers can help distribute food starting Friday at noon.

Federal workers seeking assistance should bring their personal verification card and be ready to line up by 4 p.m. Friday when doors open for distribution. The Community Resource Center hopes they can help every worker who lines up, but will keep their doors open until every box is gone.

“It’s been mentally crushing for a lot of people, but we remember what we do and we remember that we’re here to help the public and that’s why you have federal workers that show up every day to do the work,” Lott said. “Yes, sadly come paycheck there’s nothing there, but this is the community’s opportunity.”

Government workers are not all immediately set to receive pay or backpay; as federal operations slowly return to normal, officials say payments will be rolled out. The timeline depends on the agency.

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