Bouncing Back, Episode 1: Sumter United Ministries and Oktoberfest

No one, no business has been untouched by the COVID-19 pandemic, for better or for worse, but nonprofits have been hit especially hard.

Nonprofits that offer services to those in need, from food pantries and financial assistance to educational support and rehabilitation to families, have been a critical component of getting people through the pandemic. At the same time they've seen an increased need, the cancellations of events and festivals have meant sometimes massive sources of fundraising are drying up. Other nonprofits that provide art and performing arts in Sumter have remained dark for more than a year.

This is the first episode in a special season of News Without Ink that aims to help keep the area's nonprofits in the spotlight. Each episode  will highlight a different nonprofit and the corresponding event or festival that normally serves as a fundraiser for it.

To donate to Sumter United Ministries, go to https://www.uwaysumter.org, click on the big red DONATE button in the top right corner, and fill in what's needed. To earmark your donation, mention "Bouncing Back" and "Sumter United Ministries" in the comment section.