Love is in the air! There is no love like Lowcountry Love. In the Lowcountry, we believe in spreading LOVE not COVID. Please continue to wear your masks, stay at least 6 feet apart from others, and wash your hands for at least 20 seconds.

In this February newsletter, we will show love to a locally-owned business, Freedom Air Heating & Air Conditioning. We want to make you aware of a gratifying opportunity for anyone seeking a GED. You will learn about the SRC program for seniors that nurture the little darlings in their lives. Lastly, a sweet treasure of information, The People and The Economy 2020 has arrived. We cannot wait for you to see what's inside!

Please enjoy!
Freedom Air Heating and Air Conditioning
For more than 20 years, Freedom Air Heating and Air Conditioning, owned by James Anderson, has been serving the Lowcountry. The company, with locations in Hampton and Bluffton, is made up of experts who can fulfill all your HVAC needs. We are shining a spotlight on this locally-owned business because, like us, they are committed to serving the Lowcountry in more ways than one. Freedom Air has given back to the community through education and charity.

A standard professional development workshop for current employees at Freedom Air evolved into classes for community members who needed a fresh start. In November 2018, Freedom Air launched an apprenticeship program providing HVAC training to locals in need of a new career or trade skill. The apprenticeship was completely FREE of charge until nearly 4 months ago. The demand for education and HVAC services became so great that additional resources were needed to continue the program. Mike Butler, of LCOG, learned of the need for additional help at Freedom Air, so he reached out and a partnership ensued. The Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA) at LCOG provides payments to employers for training eligible participants. The WIOA program saves Freedom Air its training budget, and supplements trainees with much needed supplies to complete the program. Services provided to clients are financial assistance for tuition, books, guidance and counseling, and other support mechanisms.

Since the partnership with LCOG, Freedom Air has been able to sponsor On-the-Job Training (OJT) and Youth Work Experience (WEX) programs to a combined 48 members of the public. OJT is a way to compensate employers for providing training to eligible individuals for those jobs that only real-world, hands-on training can teach the skills for the job. WEX helps clients develop essential soft skills needed to become a successful employee. According to records, Freedom Air's training program has maintained a completion rate of 86% and placement rate of 64% for trainees. The average hourly wage is $17.55, which is more than twice SC's minimum wage. Ultimately, the goal is to reach 100% placement for completers of the program. Their program offers the opportunity to gain two certifications important to HVAC Technicians: EPA and NATE. Freedom Air is a proctor of both tests.

Affordability and accessibility are important to Freedom Air. The veteran-owned business has a Freedom Air Monthly Membership (FAMM) program, priced at $19.95 per month, to ensure that all customers can afford maintenance of their HVAC system. Last week, they hosted a Community Appreciation Day to give away free food to the residents of Hampton County and surrounding areas. Thanks to Freedom Air Heating and Conditioning for making a difference in the Lowcountry! 
Seniors Raising Children Program (SRC)
Are you an elder who is the sole caregiver for children?

Each year, more seniors from all geographic areas, socioeconomic statuses, and ethnic groups are becoming primary caregivers for their grandchildren and other children in their lives. As the children's parents struggle with substance abuse, mental illness, incarceration, economic hardship, divorce, domestic violence, and other challenges, grandparents can provide a vital safety net to children.

The Lowcountry Council of Governments Family Caregiver Support Program is pleased to offer the Seniors Raising Children (SRC) program. SRC can be a key resource if you are 55 or older and responsible for raising a non-biological child that is related to you through blood, marriage, or adoption. You may be eligible for assistance with the costs of tutoring, after-school programs, school related expenses, and summer camps for the children in your care. To find out more information about our services and your eligibility, please call Rhonda Hiott at 843-473-3991. 
Earn Your High School Equivalent Diploma for FREE
An extraordinary opportunity to advance your career and life goals.

You can earn your GED for free while drawing Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits. Attending Adult Education classes, in person or virtually, will not disqualify you from receiving UI. The GED Tests make it possible for qualified individuals to earn a high school credential that provides opportunities to pursue higher education, obtain jobs or job promotions, and achieve your personal goals - all while getting paid unemployment insurance benefits.

A GED is an opportunity for a brighter future. Learn career and life skills that will ensure your success. You can earn your high school equivalent diploma in as little as a few months. Adult Education providers in South Carolina are ready to help you get your GED at no cost to you.

For more information, contact the Office of Adult and Community Education at 803-734-8071.
The People and The Economy
The People and the Economy Report 2020 is here!

In January, the LCOG Planning Department released The People and The Economy 2020. The report updates and expands the findings of last year's report. The exposition offers a comprehensive picture of socioeconomic conditions unique to the Lowcountry region. It tracks the performance of key indicators relevant to population, housing, education, economy, public health, and crime and safety for the Lowcountry region. Also, The People and The Economy 2020 features a special section focusing on the COVID-19 pandemic.

A copy of the report is always available here. If you have any questions about the report, contact the Planning Department at 843-473-3990.
Slow the Spread
of COVID-19

Starting this month, the Lowcountry COVID-19 Report will be posted and published bi-weekly. Check our website to stay informed of the local COVID-19 statistics. As of January 29, 2021, a total of 17,905 cases have been reported in the Lowcountry, resulting in 277 deaths. A total of 239,097 COVID-19 tests were administered in the Lowcountry region, and of that number, 15.7% have tested positive.

In South Carolina, a total of 560,150 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine were distributed and 439,541 doses were administered. There are 361,557 people receiving one or more dose and 74,459 receiving two doses. Widespread vaccinations should be available by late spring to fall 2021.

If you have any questions regarding the Lowcountry COVID-19 Report, contact Maleena Parkey, PhD at 843-473-3987.
If you have questions concerning any of the information contained in the newsletter, please feel free to contact Kira Fuller at 843.473.3956 or by email at rfuller@lowcountrycog.org.