Hardsip & Hunger in Sumter, SC

According to Data USA, in 2023, Sumter, SC had a population of approximately 43,100 residents, a median age of 33.3, and a median household income of $53,071. The population is 47.4% Black or African American, 38.6% White, 3.39% Two Races Excluding Other or Three or More Races (Non-Hispanic), 2.81% Asian, and 2.02% Two Races Including Other (Hispanic).

In Sumter, SC, 15.8% of residents (6,520 of 41,300) live below the federal poverty line, exceeding the national average of 12.4%. The largest demographic living in poverty is females aged 25–34, followed by males aged 55–64 and females aged 75 and older. Poverty most commonly affects Black residents, followed by White residents and individuals of other racial or ethnic backgrounds. 

Unfortunately, one of the negative consequences of living below the poverty line is the inability to afford food and basic living essentials on a regular basis. If a family's total income is below its threshold, the family and every individual in it are considered to be living in poverty.

The effects of not eating consistently are detrimental to both adults and children, as it leads to poor nutrition, decreased productivity, and lower performance at work or school. Currently, there are not enough food pantries in Sumter to meet the need for food. Finally, the root cause of poverty is the lack of basic life skills and education, which must be addressed to end poverty.