News
DRSC Annual Report FY19-20
January 15, 2021
Annual Report
FY 2019-2020
We protect and advance the legal, civil, and human rights of people with disabilities in South Carolina
Covid-19 Emergent Needs
Due to the pandemic our staff quickly changed course this year to keep up with the changing needs of our clients. We added a COVID-19 resource section to our website, added multiple new factsheets and a new video to our resource library. DRSC monitored the changing policies and procedures of multiple state departments to ensure the safety and best interest of people with disabilities was upheld during this crisis. In partnership with multiple other organizations DRSC asked Governor Henry McMaster to work with stakeholders to institute measures to save the lives of institutionalized people with disabilities who are at the highest risk of negative health outcomes from COVID-19 as well as the people who care for them. Nearly 40% of those who have died from COVID-19 in SC were people who lived and worked in long-term care institutions.
New Advocacy Plan
We adopted a New Advocacy Plan to support our mission and vision and demonstrate our commitment to disability justice through advocacy that we hope leads to more inclusion, equality, and full participation for all people. South Carolinians, like many across the country are experiencing challenges brought on by the pandemic, economic downturn and racial inequities that are disproportionately affecting people with disabilities and their families. DRSC’s new Advocacy Plan addresses our commitment to these individuals.
Legal Advocacy
On July 25, 2020, DRSC brought a federal lawsuit about longstanding conditions at the Juvenile Detention Center operated by Charleston County. The Nelson Mullins law firm of Columbia represents DRSC. The complaint says there are “dangerous, inhumane, and unconstitutional conditions, policies, and practices” at the facility. After the suit was filed, Charleston moved the juveniles currently in their care to a floor at the adult facility. The suit is on-going.
Service Numbers
Clients Served
- Legal Support: 951
- Information and Referral: 1740
- Outreach and Training: 2460
Inspections, Monitoring & Investigations
- CRCF Inspections: 45
- Rep Payee Monitoring Visits:58
Abuse and Neglect Investigations: 42
Financials
