Dear fellow South Carolinians,

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Creating Opportunities in Underserved Communities:
Last Friday, I welcomed U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Ben Carson and Acting Comptroller of the Currency Brian P. Brooks to Charleston, where we met with nearly 50 bankers and small business owners to discuss access to capital in minority and underserved communities.

Expanding access to capital and other resources in these communities is key to creating opportunities for economic success. That is why I created Opportunity Zones, a program to help distressed areas chosen by governors in each state spur economic development by attracting private sector dollars into these communities.

And now, as the pandemic is compounding financial hardship for so many, initiatives like these are even more vital. I thank Secretary Carson and Acting Comptroller Brooks for joining me in the Palmetto State to focus on such important topics. To read more about the event and to see photos, click here.

COVID-19 and Resources:
Whether your goal is to get your kids back in school, visit grandparents again, attend sporting events in the fall, or even just hug a friend… mask up! The easiest way to slow the spread of this virus is simply by wearing a mask. In addition, please remember to follow social distancing guidelines when out, sanitize and wash your hands thoroughly, and – critically – stay home if you are feeling ill.

If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, click here for information from the South Carolina Department of Health on tele-health options and testing locations. More information on resources for South Carolinians is also available on my website.

Final Words; Lessons from the Life of John Lewis:
Although I am deeply saddened by the passing of Congressman and civil rights icon John Lewis, I am also encouraged by his life, which I believe shows us the path forward in turbulent times. He overcame so much hardship by demonstrating perseverance, courage, and love for others and for this country. By emulating these characteristics and by believing, as he did, that we are truly better together, we will overcome as well.

Sincerely,

Tim