Social Mission:

As winter’s chill settles into Columbia and we gear up for a season of joy, hosting, and celebrating with loved ones, it’s important to remember that this time of year is also critical for unsheltered children and teens in our Midlands community. 

Palmetto Place Children & Youth Services is an invaluable resource, providing everything from a warm bed, clothing, and school supplies to hot meals and a safe environment where unsheltered youth can feel at home. Winter can be an especially vulnerable time for children without guardians—and Palmetto Place steps in, without hesitation, to lend a helping hand.

“There are added layers of difficulty for youth without stable support and housing,” explains Damien Talley, Palmetto Place’s new executive director.

It’s not just the colder weather that makes this season more demanding for the organization.

“Increased needs around mental health, the isolation of being out of school, lack of reliable transportation, and limited access to proper clothing all become significant barriers to a healthy and safe life. We work to close those gaps as much as possible. The youth who come to us are like our extended family—we don’t want them to just survive this season, but thrive in it,” says Damien.

For the staff and volunteers, building trust with their residents is an important first step in ensuring a healthy, positive journey at Palmetto Place.

“When our residents realize that it’s more than a shelter—that it’s a community where they are valued—it unlocks their confidence and their sense of peace and belonging,” Damien adds.

The team at Palmetto Place is dedicated to creating structure, safety, and love. They celebrate every victory, big or small—whether it’s passing a test or getting a first job. It’s more than just a roof over a child’s head—their programs focus on the whole child, from safety and education to life skills and emotional well-being.

“A lot of residents come to us with nothing but the clothes on their back,” explains Damien. “Every teen and young adult who walks through our doors is met with compassion and possibility. It’s more than a safe haven—it’s a launching pad for youth to build their lives.”

There are many ways to support Palmetto Place this season and into the new year—whether by donating your time, money, or essential supplies like socks, winter coats, personal hygiene items, or paper goods. No contribution is too small.

“When you invest in Palmetto Place, you’re investing in our youth—who will grow up and become leaders in our community,” says Damien. “We work to build resilience in our mission and in our residents, so we can continue to impact the next generation who come to us for help.”

As we reflect on what it means to give and gather this season, let’s not overlook the young people in our community who need a place to feel safe, seen, and supported. Palmetto Place is doing the work—day in and day out—to ensure no child is left out in the cold.

Learn how you can help Palmetto Place this season by visiting palmettoplace.org/how-to-help. 

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