For decades, United Ministries has been a cornerstone of compassion in Clarendon County, serving residents in need with essential support. For a second year, the organization is teaming up with Manning United Methodist Church for the annual Super Bowl of Caring, an initiative that transforms Super Bowl weekend into an opportunity to tackle hunger in local communities.
United Ministries, founded by locals Ted and Barbara Johnson, has steadily grown to meet the needs of the community. Executive Director Kathy Bryce, who has been with the organization for over 16 years, is passionate about continuing its mission.
United Ministries provides food every three months, access to clothing and household items through a partnership with First Baptist Church’s Friendship House, and $100 toward prescription medication at local pharmacies such as Anderson Pharmacy and Sumter RX.
Additionally, the organization serves homeless residents weekly and operates mobile food pantries twice a month in rural areas, partnering with churches, fire departments, and community centers. Each pantry distributes enough food for 125 families, often exceeding that amount when supplies allow.
In 2023, United Ministries served 12,461 individuals, nearly a third of the county’s population. “To Him, we give the glory,” Bryce said.
The Super Bowl of Caring, founded in 1990 at Spring Valley Presbyterian Church in Columbia, South Carolina, has grown into a national movement. Inspired by a simple prayer to remember those in need during Super Bowl festivities, the initiative has raised over $193 million in food and donations for hunger-relief charities nationwide.
Locally, Manning United Methodist Church leads the effort. Donations, including canned goods, bags of rice, and monetary contributions, are doubled through matching funds. In 2023, the campaign raised over $5,000 for United Ministries.
“Anything donated—whether a can of food or a $100 bill—is doubled, making a significant difference for families in need,” Bryce explained.
This year’s campaign will accept donations through early February, with all proceeds benefiting United Ministries.
While the Super Bowl of Caring plays a vital role in supporting United Ministries, the organization has year-round needs, including rice, dried beans, mac and cheese, peanut butter, jelly, canned fruit, and canned vegetables. Bryce also mentioned a pressing need for a new refrigerator to store perishable donations.
“We rely on the generosity of individuals, churches, civic groups, and grants,” Bryce said. “Whatever the need is, I pray about it, and within days, someone brings it through the door. It’s the most amazing place to work.”
Bryce highlighted the support of the Lions Club of Manning, which helps with unloading trucks, staffing pantries, and distributing food. “If it wasn’t for the Lions Club, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do,” she said.
The community’s generosity shines through in other events as well, such as the post office’s annual food drive. “It’s an incredible testament to the heart of this town,” Bryce said.
Community members can contribute to United Ministries by donating non-perishable food items, funds, or a working refrigerator. Monetary donations can be mailed to United Ministries, P.O. Box 73, Manning, SC 29102. Volunteers are always welcome to assist with food distribution and other activities.
For Bryce, the mission remains deeply personal. “God tapped me on the shoulder 16 years ago, and I’ve been here ever since,” she said. “Our town is growing, and so is the need, but together, we can make a difference.”
