In the early 1990s, concerned citizens and the Sumter Ministerial Association determined that individual churches were not equipped to deal with requests for crisis assistance in our community. Sumter United Ministries first opened on January 12, 1994. Sumter United Ministries provides a platform for Sumter churches to meet the needs of the elderly, working poor, disabled and homeless. In responding to those needs, Sumter United Ministries has grown organically to include: crisis relief, home repair, a homeless shelter, education assistance and medical services.

Our work emphasizes independence, education, employment and a relationship with God. By helping families in crisis, we yield a positive return on investment for the whole community.

We maintain records of quantitative community impact, including:

The number of clients served and finances used, clinic visits and number of patients, number of guests at the shelter, how much food was provided for families, number of volunteers, school supplies provided to the district, homes repaired & wheelchair ramps built.

SUM is governed by a thirteen member board of directors and staffed primarily by volunteers who share God’s love and concern for all of God’s people.