CHStoday is working to keep you updated on the latest local news, announcements, + resources related to the COVID-19 pandemic. To find more of our ongoing coverage, click here.

Charleston, we love you. You’re innovative. Hardworking. Smart. Talented. Reliable. Strong.

And we wish the market was the same right now. As it stands, South Carolina is experiencing a record first-time number of unemployment claims and we hear the urges and pleas our friends, family, and neighbors have in their job search and the struggles our very beloved small businesses are facing.

While continuing to show our support to small businesses and those in search of a job by sharing updates in our newsletter, we’ve put together a list of resources for those in search of a job + for small business owners who are in need of additional assistance.

For job-seekers

○ In order to help those who are out of a job, we have provided a list of essential businesses looking to hire more workers and provide SC with necessary goods to combat COVID-19 demands.

○ The South Carolina Department of Education and Workforce has launched a new online resource hub for job seekers.

○ Renters who have lost their jobs due to the coronavirus may qualify for rental assistance. Here’s a list of local agencies to check out.

○ Palmetto Goodwill has a new virtual call center for connecting people with job opportunities. It operates 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call Palmetto Goodwill at 843-566-0072 or visit their website for more information.

○ SC Gov. Henry McMaster issued Executive Order 2020-22, which allows furloughed employees to receive “COVID-19 Support Payments” from their employers and still qualify for unemployment benefits.

○ Unsure about whether or not you qualify for unemployment assistance? Check out this info sheet from South Carolina Legal Services.

○ The City of Charleston created an online dashboard with essential resources for assistance with housing, food and nutrition, utilities, healthcare, and more.

For small businesses

○ The South Carolina Department of Education and Workforce has launched a new online resource hub for employers.

○ The Small Business Administration is once again accepting Paycheck Protection Program applications from participating lenders. The funding is once again limited, and expected to be fully claimed soon. Click here for more information, via Lowcountry Local First.

○ DHEC shared guidance for businesses planning to reopen during the pandemic.

○ The City of Charleston created an online dashboard with information like best practices, financial assistance, free business resources, restaurant support, nonprofit support, city resources, and more.

○ Lowcountry Local First created a COVID-19 Resource and Action Center for local businesses.

Are there any additional resources you think we should include? Share with us in the comments below.