Columbia Community Rallies to Address Affordable Housing, Gun Violence, and Food Justice

Columbia Community Unites to Tackle Local Issues

Columbia, S.C. — On a warm Monday evening, a diverse crowd gathered at Incarnation Lutheran Church on Devine Street. People from all walks of life, representing twenty-seven congregations throughout the Midlands, came together to discuss some of the most pressing challenges facing their community this year. The meeting, organized by the non-profit organization MORE Justice, kicked off with a heartfelt prayer led by Reverend Emily Wilhide. “Be present in our deliberations and may we all know the joy and inspiration of working toward a collective goal for the common good of all of your people. Amen,” she prayed, setting a tone of unity and purpose.

Addressing Urgent Issues

The air was thick with the hope of making a difference as the group turned their attention to key issues: affordable housing, gun violence, and food justice. David Lee, a member of the MORE Justice network, reminded everyone why such gatherings matter. “It’s hard for one congregation even to make much impact, so our power at MORE Justice, or our influence, is because of our numbers,” he said, highlighting the strength that comes from community collaboration.

A Focus on Affordable Housing

One of the main focal points was the alarming need for affordable housing. The committee working on this issue reported that there are over 16,000 families in the Midlands currently in need of housing assistance. In a bit of good news, Richland County has pledged $4 million to meet immediate housing needs and is attempting to secure additional funds for long-term solutions. However, Reverend James Woodley from Gill Creek Baptist Church pointed out that a motion for next steps proposed back in May was surprisingly walked back by Richland County just a month later. “That committee has not met since,” he shared, stressing the need for continued advocacy and action.

Progress on Gun Violence

The meeting also celebrated some success with the issue of gun violence. Reverend Carey Grady from Reid Chapel AME reported positive statistics from the Columbia Police Department. “Today we have a reason to celebrate,” he exclaimed, noting that as of October 7, 2024, non-fatal shootings are down by 46% and gun murders have decreased by 33%. While these numbers are certainly promising, the gun violence committee reminded attendees that there is still much work to do in order to further reduce these incidents, particularly in Richland County and surrounding areas.

Food Justice Initiatives

Another critical subject was food justice. The committee focused on increasing the Toms Creek Family Farms Mobile Market from its current sites to nine locations. This mobile market is key in providing fresh produce to underserved areas in the Midlands, where access to healthy, less-processed food options can be limited. “Mercy acts as the food pantry and the clothes closets, but the justice work is holding city officials accountable for the problems people are facing in the community,” remarked Reverend Jackie Utley from Ascension Lutheran Church, underscoring the need for systemic change.

The Path Ahead

With their goals laid out, the group is now looking forward to a combination of research and community engagement to find data-driven solutions to these critical issues. They plan to call upon local and state leaders to take action in May of next year. If you’re interested in making an impact and would like to learn more about how you can get involved, consider visiting the MORE Justice website.

Mark your calendars! The next community meeting is set for 6 p.m. on April 7, 2025, at Shandon Presbyterian Church. Let’s come together and continue the fight for a better, more equitable Columbia!