Lowcountry Forever: Our Lady of Mercy & Water Missions – March 9, 2025

SEGMENT #1: Our Lady of Mercy Community Outreach
GUEST: Jermaine Husser, Executive Director
ISSUE: Community Service
Everyone has the right to thrive – that’s the belief at Our Lady of Mercy Community Outreach with locations in downtown Charleston and on Johns Island. The non-profit organization helps those in need, but more than just on a surface level, but instead strives to provide long-term assistance.  Executive Director Jermaine Husser explained how the organization helps individuals and families who walk through the door. Husser discussed all of the services they try to provide beyond just food and clothing needs, but also assisting with job searches and providing life skills. They have a huge fundraiser, the March 22 “Love Your Neighbors Celebration” which includes an awards ceremony as they thank businesses and community organizations that have assisted over the past year.

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SEGMENT #2: Water Missions International
GUEST: Mary Howell, Sr. Manager of Charleston Community Engagement
ISSUE: Water/Water Needs
Many people do not realize the organization that is at the forefront of providing clean water to areas around the world when storms and natural disasters occur was created and in based in Charleston. Water Missions International provides clean water, for drinking, cleaning and sewage internationally, and in the U.S.  The non-profit recently assisted in North Carolina, devastated by Hurricane Helene. Mary Howell, the organization’s Senior Manager of Charleston Community Engagement explained how the organization was founded and the growth they’ve had.  Howell also provided details on their huge fundraising event, the annual “Walk for Water” on March 29 at North Charleston Riverfront Park and shared how people could sign-up and participate in this year’s event.

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