Our story began in 1972 when a small group of women met with a caseworker from the Department of Social Services who was concerned about clients who needed immediate aid. Their most pressing needs were for food and clothing. The pioneers of HELP began gathering food and clothing for families and individuals.
 Rummage  sales were held, and an annual sale of special items brought in large sums of much needed funds.
 In the 1980s HELP was able to expand financial aid with support from many agencies such as Bosch Employees Fair Share Fund, United Way, Salvation Army, churches, individuals, etc. In 1984, our all volunteer group was able to hire a part time clothing coordinator and grew to opening our office with one part time employee. We were and are grateful to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church for providing the space which became our permanent home.

Through the 1990s up to the present, the Board of Directors has led HELP in fulfilling our purpose to meet the needs of the community. We will continue to survive and thrive as long as good folks like you support HELP.  In 1988, we formed our own thrift shop, Second Chance Thrift Shop.

Currently, the Second Chance Shop continues as an all volunteer non-profit organization where profits are shared with HELP of Summerville and other local charities.