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The South Carolina Department of Veterans’ Affairs (SCDVA), in partnership with Harvest Hope Food Bank, has entered the final stretch of its 4th Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive, which concludes Friday, November 21st.
This year’s drive has been especially meaningful, offering timely support to Veterans, families, and South Carolina residents experiencing food insecurity. Since early November, community members across the state have stepped up to help ensure no one goes without a nutritious meal this holiday season.
There’s still time to make an impact. Donations of non-perishable food items are being accepted at collection sites statewide, and supporters can also give online through Harvest Hope’s virtual shopping cart. Every can, box, and dollar directly supports neighbors in need.
Food Drop-Off Locations:
SCDVA Headquarters – 1800 St. Julian Place, Suite 305, Columbia, SC 29204
Harvest Hope Midlands – 2220 Shop Road, Columbia, SC 29201
Harvest Hope Upstate – 2818 White Horse Road, Greenville, SC 29611
Harvest Hope Pee Dee – 2701 Alex Lee Boulevard, Florence, SC 29506
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On November 12, 2025, MSG (Ret.) Alfonso J. Boyd was formally presented with his certificate naming him the 2025–2026 South Carolina Veteran of the Year during a ceremony hosted in partnership with the South Carolina Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and Chester County. The honor was personally awarded by SCDVA Secretary Major General (Ret.) Todd B. McCaffrey.
The event brought together Veteran leaders, community partners, and distinguished guests—including Senator Everette Stubbs, MG (Ret.) Wade Hampton McManus, and representatives from the offices of Congressman Ralph Norman, Senator Lindsey Graham, and Senator Tim Scott—each offering heartfelt praise for Boyd’s leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to his fellow Veterans.
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Earlier this week, the South Carolina Department of Veterans’ Affairs (SCDVA) was honored to be in Chesterfield County to capture the graduation of a few Veterans who completed the county’s Veterans Treatment Court Program — an accountability-driven alternative to traditional sentencing designed to support justice-involved Veterans.
This program offers eligible Veterans charged with non-violent offenses a structured path to address behavioral-health or substance-use challenges through treatment, mentorship, and regular judicial oversight. Over a minimum of 12 months, participants complete assessments, weekly self-help meetings, random drug testing, individualized treatment plans, and consistent court check-ins, all while working closely with a dedicated Veteran mentor.
Stay tuned for more information on Veteran Treatment Courts and their ongoing impact on Veterans and families across South Carolina.
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The South Carolina Department of Veterans’ Affairs (SCDVA) is proud to recognize Spartanburg School District One as the state’s newest Purple Star School District, a distinction awarded to schools and districts that go above and beyond in supporting military-connected students and their families.
The Purple Star designation—granted by the South Carolina Department of Education and administered through SCDVA—honors institutions that provide strong transition support, maintain meaningful partnerships with military organizations, and create welcoming, stable environments for children of active-duty, National Guard, and Reserve families. These efforts ensure military-connected students experience the continuity, connection, and academic stability they need, even through frequent moves and deployments.
Spartanburg One celebrated the recognition as a meaningful achievement for its school community. “We are honored to receive this designation,” said Superintendent Dr. Mark Smith. “Our goal is to ensure every student feels supported, connected, and valued. This recognition affirms our commitment to the families who serve our country.”
Dr. Amber Pitts, Military Community Liaison for the district, emphasized the positive impact military families have within Spartanburg One. “Our military-connected students enrich our school community in so many ways,” she said. “This designation highlights our ongoing commitment to ensuring their families feel supported, welcomed, and understood throughout every transition.”
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READY TO HIRE
Elite 8 Jobs Spotlight
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Detention Center Officer
Myrtle Beach, SC
City of Myrtle Beach– APPLY HERE
Construction Superintendent
Conway, SC
Horry County– APPLY HERE
Finance Analyst/Community Development
Columbia, SC
City of Columbia– APPLY HERE
Planner Scheduler
Columbia, SC
City of Columbia– APPLY HERE
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Heavy Equipment Operator
Greenville, SC
Greenville County– APPLY HERE
Firefighter
Spartanburg, SC
Spartanburg County– APPLY HERE
Network Manager
Orangeburg, SC
Orangeburg County– APPLY HERE
Recreation Coordinator
Summerville, SC
Town of Summerville– APPLY HERE
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We regularly update our events page so Veterans, service members, and their families can find activities happening across the state and surrounding areas. Click below for more details.
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Send us your nominations!
This month, we spotlight Major (Ret.) James Munford, a U.S. Air Force Veteran, educator, and community leader. Originally from Philadelphia, Major Munford dedicated 20 years of military service before continuing his commitment to service through education and civic engagement in South Carolina.
Read Major (Ret.) Munford’s full story below.
Do you know a Veteran who has gone above and beyond in service to their country or community? Here's your chance to honor their dedication and sacrifice.
Click below to learn more about this program and how to nominate a Veteran!
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