Lynn Young had always been a beacon of hope for children. Twenty-one years ago, as guardian ad litem, she saw firsthand the dire needs of children in court, often lacking basic necessities like proper clothing and shoes. Determined to make a difference, Lynn rallied her family and friends to gather essential items, sparking the creation of Lowcountry Orphan Relief (LOR).
LOR's mission is to provide emergency clothing and support to children suffering from abuse and neglect. Its operations center around a house and distribution facility, enabling efficient collection and distribution of resources. The Care Kit program, a key initiative, offers children two weeks' worth of clothing, pajamas, toiletries, books, and stuffed animals. These kits provide comfort to children suddenly thrust into foster care.
Neglect, often tied to poverty, frequently requires intervention.
"There was a case where two brothers in Columbia, SC, were constantly missing class and the school could not get in touch with their mother," says Sara Wallace, Executive Director of LOR. "Eventually one of the boys was suspended from school. It turned out they were missing class because they were sharing a single pair of shoes."
This highlighted the silent suffering children
endure when parents are too embarrassed to seek help.
LOR serves newborns to 18-year-olds,
distributing more than 6,000 Care Kits in 2023 alone. Its Just in Case Closets
initiative places clothing in Title One schools, ensuring direct access for
children in need, and has a goal to be in more than 50 schools by year's end.
Collaboration with 70 agencies and the support
of volunteers are crucial to LOR's success. Typically, 10-15 volunteers work at
a time, including youth groups and corporate teams. Annually, more than 4,000
volunteers contribute to LOR's mission.
"Our work helps to ensure each child who faces
neglect and abuse gets the dignity and care they deserve," says Lynn. "We've
helped countless children find solace and support."
To
donate to Lowcountry Orphan Relief or volunteer at one of its distribution
facilities, visit the website or email info@lorkids.org.
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About Cingo: The name Cingo means to surround and secure, conveying the company's commitment to home protection. The company has been protecting families in the Southeast since 1974. It provides home protection services throughout Georgia and South Carolina, including Atlanta, Augusta, Charleston, Douglas, Dublin, Milledgeville, Savannah, Vidalia, Waycross and all points in between. Cingo was named a Best Place to Work in Georgia by Georgia Trend Magazine and listed as a National Best & Brightest Company to Work For. Learn more at www.cingohome.com.