Disabilities and Special Needs boards get grants

The S.C. Developmental Disabilities Council, Office of the Governor, has awarded a $1,170 grant to the Florence County Disabilities and Special Needs Board for Personal Outcomes Interviews by Self Advocates, and a $23,552 grant to the Marlboro County Disabilities and Special Needs Board for The Jolly Bean Coffee Shop.

The Florence County project is meant to increase self-advocates’ leadership role in the interview process of personal outcomes and data collection. The money will be used by the Florence County DSN Board for consultant fees, travel, and supplies.

The Marlboro County program will accelerate the level of employment opportunity and community social interaction for 22 developmentally disabled resident by establishing a gourmet coffee shop and restaurant across from the courthouse square in the historic downtown district of Bennettsville.

The grants represents a portion of the money allocated to South Carolina by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under the Developmental Disabilities Basic State Grant program.