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Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always

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Home Care In Columbia, SC

Home Care Columbia, SC

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Robert Mills House and Gardens gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Columbia, SC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Columbia, SC

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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TESTIMONIALS

“I engaged Nate as a consultant to search for the right Assisted Living Facility for my mom. This service is no cost to the family. He spent quite some time getting my mom's preferences clarified and then searching for matching AL facilities. All of this was done in less than two days. He and I talked through the options and I relayed the two I felt were best to mom. Nate personally picked mom up from rehab and took her on those tours, which was a godsend because I live in another state. During both tours, he texted me "play by plays" as to how it was going. He helped me and mom choose the right place for her budget and needs - and was very patient with us as my mom took longer than expected to make the final decision. She was talking about needing a new TV and Nate provided her/us with a link to some that were on sale that met her needs. Once the decision was made, Nate accompanied the AL staff member to mom's rehab and sat through the entire long paperwork process to ensure mom understood what she was signing. Again, he kept me in the loop by texting me regularly about how things were going during the meeting. He checked in a couple of times after that and prior to mom's move asking how our prep was going and if we needed anything. On one call, I did ask for a referral to a specific service we needed. He didn't have an established one, so he researched it and got one for me promptly. During and shortly after moving day, Nate checked in again to see how mom was settling in. I've been amazed at the personalized engagement that we received from Nate. Anytime he said he would do something, he did it and he did it promptly. If anything was delayed, he updated me immediately. This is in stark contrast to Tara at Senior Care Authority that provides this service as well. She promised me things during our initial call and didn't follow through on most of them. During our text exchanges, she never answered my specific question - always danced around it. Within a handful of days, I said "nope!", researched more, and came across Nate and this service. Ahhhh, what a breath of fresh air to receive what you asked for. I have no doubt it saved me countless hours glued to my computer, trying to compare facilities. I highly recommend Nate and his consulting service - it was an excellent experience and he was a lifesaver!”

Christine C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Very professional and friendly office staff. They are also easy to communicate with. I recommend Always Best Care Senior Services for any senior in need. Also, if you ever need a job, please go and apply. They are always hiring weekly and offer competitive rates.”

Latasha C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am truly grateful for the opportunity to work here at Always Best Care over the past six months. Melisa and Nate have been wonderful and thanks for molding me into becoming a great leader. Professionalism is the key to success ????✨⭐️ I am looking forward to many years to come.”

Sabrina C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“This is a great company and I would recommended to everyone. I have been with them for 3years Their caregivers are insightful and have so much compassion especially Mariah and Sabrina they are some of there champs they both have great personality and are very Professional. The owners are great and they run a great company.thank you for all that you guys do ????”

Tony T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a friend or relative of a current/past resident Always Best Care of the Midlands Team ensured that I was well informed, and my loved one received the best care possible. The compassionate care was delivered not only by the care professionals, but by the support team. The owners even checked in with us to offer support and guidance. They exceeded our expectations!”

Maggie
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TESTIMONIALS

“This is a company that truly cares about its employees and the seniors they care for! Nate and Melisa offer regular training for caregivers so they they can provide the best care possible!”

Kayla P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Nice people to work with”

Denise D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Gina Berry takes time explaining why home care and Always Best Care is the best choice for your family’s needs. The Team at Always Best is thoughtful and supportive they go out of their way to make you feel heard and understood. They customize the care plan, care team and schedule. I recommend them to anyone considering aging in place.”

Melisa R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider From a caretakers/daughters point of view: This service is a savior for me personally. It relieves me from having to miss a lot of work time to travel to my mothers appt, now I can meet her at the appt. and save this time. The care and service she is getting is TOP NOTCH! From how easy it is for my mother to schedule and the follow through is right on the money. From a person getting the services: Melissa is the best, she calls me weekly to remind me of my appointments coming up. I am very pleased with the services and absolutely pleased with the services provided. I know that this alone helps ease the mind of my daughter. Thank you to the team at Always Best Care!”

Stephanie A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care is a great company to work for and if you are looking for care for a loved one, I highly recommend them. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and supportive. I work in the senior industry and recommend Always Best Care to my clients that need extra support in their home or while family is away. Always Best Care will respond immediately and truly show compassion to others.”

Dusty B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The Staff, the care teams and the owners are one of a kind! They take the time to ensure your care needs are met. Highly recommend giving them a call if you have senior care or senior living questions or concerns.”

Melisa B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Nate took the time to meet with me and my family and help make sense of the questions we had when it came to the short and long term care of our loved one. When you have an elderly parent or a loved one with disabilities there are so many questions and so many emotions. It can be so confusing and it was hard for us to find one person or one company that has the knowledge and grasp of this industry that Nate has. We cannot thank him enough for guiding us through this process and his amazing bedside manner!”

pam C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Hello to all of my Always Best Care friends, I'd like to wish you and your families a Merry, Blessed Christmas and a Happy, Prosperous New Year!  My brother, my dad, and I really appreciate everything you did for us this year.  You're amazing! All the best for the Christmas season and 2023,”

Neal L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider It is essential to us, he really needs assistance daily, and I work full time. I like their team approach.”

Elizabeth &.
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TESTIMONIALS

“This is one of the best companies I’ve worked for in a long time. The owners, Nate and Melisa, genuinely care about clients AND staff. They go above and beyond to support, encourage, and help everyone they work with. Their doors are always open, they’re generous with their time, and they truly want their staff to succeed. Donna in the billing department is fabulous, always available to answer questions or help in any way; Katrina in scheduling puts in so much time and effort to accommodate everyone’s needs and it’s amazing how well she handles everything; Angel works diligently on recruiting and training, making sure there’s plenty of staff to provide quality care; and Jackie is an incredible CHAMP, making sure clients are properly reassessed and care givers have the right tools and knowledge to do their job. ABC is a fantastic, compassionate, caring team I’m proud to be a part of, and I’m proud to serve our clients, too.”

Gina B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider It depends on who they hire for the job. The people they hire can improve.”

Josephine N.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I would have had to quit my job if it wasn't for them and they go grocery shopping. They can have more guidance for the client and what to do for the client.”

Kyle M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They have made it positive by being friendly and courteous. I like that I do not have to worry about them; they are honest.”

Mary J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider The agency would have to make it a lot easier for me to find out about the caregiver coming out and having someone on backup. The agency could provide better scheduling and the caregivers would not come in on time.”

Anonymous_6190
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider The caregiver has changed a lot for me and has done errands for me. I would tell a friend that Donna is great.”

Michael B.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Columbia, SC?

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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

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At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Columbia, SC

Types of Elderly Care in Columbia, SC

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Columbia, SC
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Columbia, SC
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Columbia, SC
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Ruth's Chris Steak House or visit Historic Columbia, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Columbia, SC

Benefits of Home Care in Columbia, SC

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Columbia, SC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Columbia, SC

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your SC's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Columbia, SC

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Columbia, SC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Columbia, SC

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Columbia, SC

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • Best Assisted Living Columbia - Luxury Senior Living Columbia SC & Senior Care South Carolina
  • Brookdale Columbia
  • Brookdale Harbison
  • Mill Creek Manor Senior Living
  • Merrill Gardens at Columbia
  • Wildewood Downs
Home Care Columbia, SC

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Columbia, SC

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Columbia, SC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Columbia, SC

Latest News in Columbia, SC

A new Target store is planned for a shopping center coming to this growing Midlands area

A new Target store is the planned anchor for a new shopping center in Lexington County, and a well-known NFL name is connected with the project.The shopping center is poised to occupy an as-yet-undeveloped parcel of land in the 2500 block of Augusta Highway, across the road from and just west of Lexington High School. There are several businesses already located in that general area, including a shopping center that’s highlighted by a Lowes Foods.Dallas-based 413 Solutions announced the project ...

A new Target store is the planned anchor for a new shopping center in Lexington County, and a well-known NFL name is connected with the project.

The shopping center is poised to occupy an as-yet-undeveloped parcel of land in the 2500 block of Augusta Highway, across the road from and just west of Lexington High School. There are several businesses already located in that general area, including a shopping center that’s highlighted by a Lowes Foods.

Dallas-based 413 Solutions announced the project in a Feb. 5 news release. Touting it as a “cutting edge shopping center,” the development company said it is planned for a fall 2026 opening.

Emmitt Smith, who had a long career with the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys and remains the league’s all-time leading rusher, is listed as the chairman of 413 Solutions on the company’s website.

“Lexington represents an incredible opportunity for growth,” Smith said in the news release. “413 Solutions is committed to creating a retail center that meets the evolving needs of local businesses and residents. This project reflects our dedication to delivering exceptional commercial developments.”

Columbia TV station WLTX first reported the news of the shopping center locally.

The land for which the project is slated currently is an undeveloped, mostly wooded area. Commercial real estate firm NAI Columbia brokered the sale of the roughly 27-acre site back in December, according to a list of transactions from the company.

The Augusta Highway property is in the midst of a growing area of Lexington, just north of Interstate 20 and just south of U.S. 378. A host of new residential subdivisions are in various stages of development along Augusta Highway, headed in the direction of Gilbert. Retailers in the general area of Lexington High, either along Augusta or nearby U.S. 378, include Lowes Foods, Publix, Little Caesars, McDonald’s, Starbucks, Bojangles, Planet Fitness and Zaxby’s among others.

Lexington County has, broadly, seen its population soar in the last quarter-century. The county’s population has grown from 216,000 in 2000 to more than 309,000 as of 2023, per census data.

“We see tremendous potential in Lexington,” 413 Solutions CEO David Mosley said in a release. “This shopping center is more than just a collection of stores — it’s a strategic investment in the region’s economic future.”

This would be the second Target store in Lexington. There currently is one at 5119 Sunset Blvd. The company also has stores on Garners Ferry Road and Harbison Boulevard in Columbia.

This story was originally published February 6, 2025 at 12:08 PM.

The State

Chris Trainor is a retail reporter for The State and has been working for newspapers in South Carolina for more than 20 years, including previous stops at the (Greenwood) Index-Journal and the (Columbia) Free Times. He is the winner of numerous South Carolina Press Association awards, including honors in column writing, government beat reporting, profile writing, food writing, business beat reporting, election coverage, social media and more.

Keep that wallet closed. Here are 5 things to do in Columbia that won't cost you a penny.

It's a common quandary: you want to get out and do something fun, but your bank account is telling you to stay home and save money.Thankfully, there are plenty of free things to do in Columbia and the surrounding Midlands. Here are just a few suggestions that won't cost you a dime:State House ToursWhen: Monday - Friday, every 30-minute mark from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.Where: 1100 Gervais St.Price: FreeThe historic South Carolina State House is the center of the capital city and is unlike any other S...

It's a common quandary: you want to get out and do something fun, but your bank account is telling you to stay home and save money.

Thankfully, there are plenty of free things to do in Columbia and the surrounding Midlands. Here are just a few suggestions that won't cost you a dime:

State House Tours

When: Monday - Friday, every 30-minute mark from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Where: 1100 Gervais St.

Price: Free

The historic South Carolina State House is the center of the capital city and is unlike any other State capitol building. Guided tours (with a gift shop) are available while in session. Bookings for groups are recommended and can be made at (803) 734-2430.

Riverbanks Zoo Free Fridays

When: Every Friday in January and February

Where: Riverbanks Zoo, 500 Wildlife Pkwy

Price: Free for residents of Lexington and Richland counties

The Riverbanks will open its doors to locals free of charge for the next month. Check out more than 3,000 animals or stop by the botanical gardens, even if not everything is in season.

Ernest Lee “The Chicken Man” at The Columbia S.C. Visitor’s Center

When: Feb. 8, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Where: Columbia Visitors Center, 1120 Lincoln St.

Price: Free

The Columbia Visitors Center will be featuring Columbia’s iconic “Chicken Man,” Ernest Lee. He will be there in the flesh with some of his iconic folk art for sale.

Governor’s Mansion Tour

When: Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays; 10, 10:30 and 11 a.m.

Where: 800 Richland St.

Price: Free

The governor’s mansion has been the official governor’s residence since 1868. The house was built in 1865 as part of Arsenal Military Academy and spared during the burning of Columbia during the Civil War. It also features a garden with magnolia and crepe myrtle trees, maintained by on-site staff. The garden is open during the week from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Historic Columbia Online Tours

When: Assorted dates

Where: Assorted locations

Starting Price: Free

Historic Columbia offers 19 self-guided online tours of Columbia neighborhoods and landmarks. Tours range from State House monuments, Civil War sites and African American Heritage sites to entire neighborhoods. More information is available at historiccolumbia.org.

10 South Carolina Native American tribes sign historic alliance at Statehouse

COLUMBIA — For the first time in history, 10 Native American tribes from across South Carolina signed an alliance. And it came with the support of Gov. Henry McMaster."Today we stand at a crossroads, where the voices of our ancestors whisper in the wind, urging us to come together for the future of our peoples," said Brian Harris, chief of the Catawba Nation.The chiefs gathered with the governor at the Statehouse the afternoon of Feb. 4 to mark the occasion. After the 10 chiefs had spoken, McMaster took the podi...

COLUMBIA — For the first time in history, 10 Native American tribes from across South Carolina signed an alliance. And it came with the support of Gov. Henry McMaster.

"Today we stand at a crossroads, where the voices of our ancestors whisper in the wind, urging us to come together for the future of our peoples," said Brian Harris, chief of the Catawba Nation.

The chiefs gathered with the governor at the Statehouse the afternoon of Feb. 4 to mark the occasion. After the 10 chiefs had spoken, McMaster took the podium to remark on the importance of remembering the full history of South Carolina.

"We need to know our history, how we got here and what happened along the way," he said. "Our history books tell us about when Columbus discovered America. But America was already here, and America was already a people, made up of the ancestors of the people here right now."

The Catawba Nation is the only federally recognized tribe in South Carolina, affording it protections like self-governance, land control, taxation power and federal funding.

Nine other tribes are recognized at the state level: Edisto Natchez-Kusso, Beaver Creek Indians, Pee Dee Indian Nation of Upper South Carolina, Pee Dee Indian Tribe, Santee Indian Organization, Piedmont American Indian Association, Lower Eastern Cherokee Nation, Sumter Tribe of Cheraw Indians, Waccamaw Indian People and Wassamasaw Tribe of Varnertown Indians.

The alliance is focused on goals like cultural preservation, historical and physical conservation, economic development and sovereignty.

But it's more than symbolic — the alliance is a “government-to-government” relationship, according to Tylee Anderson, spokesperson for the Catawba Nation. That means supporting economic relations between the tribes.

“It’s always great to have a helping hand,” said Anderson. “As a federally recognized tribe, we have more resources than the state-recognized tribes. So this is important to help lift up all the Native American people of South Carolina.”

Last month, the chief of the Catawba nation invited entrepreneurs from other tribes and local communities to open businesses on a new piece of the Catawba reservation in York County. Tylee said their federal recognition allows them to offer tax breaks and other financial incentives to encourage economic development.

Seeking sovereignty

Self-governance is also a key factor in the alliance.

Sovereignty, or the federally recognized right for a Native American tribe to govern itself, is more than just a title, according to Joshua Shumak, Native American affairs program coordinator and vice chief of the Wassamasaw Tribe of Varnertown Indians.

“With South Carolina being one of the fastest-growing states in the nation, many tribes are feeling that pressure of displacement once more,” said Shumak.

Many tribes are located in “growth corridors” around the state. As a result, tribes are finding it impossible to keep up with the pace of development around them, according to Shumak. That’s where the “conservation” element of the alliance comes into play; not only is it important for members to stay connected as a community, but it’s equally important for the tribe to remain connected to the land itself.

The Wassamasaw Tribe of Varnertown Indians is one of four tribes that have introduced bills for federal recognition into the U.S. Congress. The Catawba Nation said they will support the Wassamaw’s bill, along with bills from the Waccamaw Indian People, Pee Dee Indian Tribe and Edisto Natchez-Kusso.

Shumak said preserving Native American culture should be of the utmost importance in a state that's fast growing and fast changing.

“It’s a community that’s been around for thousands of years,” said Shumak. “That’s something you can’t get back once it’s lost.”

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SC Democratic Party, Attorney General react to ongoing ICE raids

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO) — On Tuesday, the Trump Administration sent the first group of migrant detainees to Guantanamo Bay Naval Base, which is being used as a large scale immigration detention center.“There’s a lot of space to accommodate a lot of people, yeah, so we’re going to use it,” says President Trump from the Oval Office.This, following his executive order on January 20th to crackdown on illegal immigration.Also on Tuesday, Attorney General Alan Wilson sent a letter to all 46 sheriffs a...

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO) — On Tuesday, the Trump Administration sent the first group of migrant detainees to Guantanamo Bay Naval Base, which is being used as a large scale immigration detention center.

“There’s a lot of space to accommodate a lot of people, yeah, so we’re going to use it,” says President Trump from the Oval Office.

This, following his executive order on January 20th to crackdown on illegal immigration.

Also on Tuesday, Attorney General Alan Wilson sent a letter to all 46 sheriffs across SC — encouraging them to apply for ICE’s “Section 287-G Program” — which allows local law enforcement to perform and help in certain immigration efforts.

According to the official website of “Immigration and Customs Enforcement,” only Horry, Lexington, and York counties are currently signed up for the program.

Christale Spain, Chair of the SC Democratic Party, says there’s a lot of misinformation out there regarding the raids causing fear throughout certain communities.

“You know I just think people are scared, and emotionally feel afraid. We don’t know what’s happening with our country, and I think the way to combat that, as far as the Democratic Party goes, is to put out factual information,” she says.

With recent ICE raids happening as nearby as Goose Creek, SC and Savannah, Georgia, the SC Democratic Party wants legal community members to know their rights — should an ICE agent come to their door.

“To know that they don’t have to open the door for ICE unless they have a signed warrant from a judge, and they do have the right to remain silent, and they are not required to answer questions about their immigration status. And don’t sign anything without legal representation,” says Spain, adding, if you’re able to record the ICE raid safely, to do so.

“And report those incidents to immigrant rights organizations and legal groups,” she says.

According to Spain, adding to fear mongering regarding ICE raids are impersonators, with three men recently arrested for pretending to be an ICE agent. This includes 33-year-old Sean-Michael Johnson from Charleston County.

Congresswoman Nancy Mace has also taken part in raids, as she posted on X.

“If there aren’t safe guard rails put up on some of this, this craziness, you know, Americans are going to get swept up into this, and that…that should be a concern for everybody,” says Spain.

If you’d like more information, a free discussion regarding ICE raids will be held at the Richland County Public Library on Saturday, February 8th at 2:30 p.m.

Columbia pastor charged with breach of trust

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - A pastor in a Columbia church has been charged after being accused of stealing thousands of dollars in funds.In November, Jimmie Whaley, Jr., was charged with two counts of felony breach of trust.Whaley allegedly took tens of thousands of dollars from members of his congregation who thought they were just simply paying their tithes, according to investigators.An arrest warrant states this went on for a year beginning in January 2023 while Whaley was the pastor at Midlands Body of Christ in Columbia...

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - A pastor in a Columbia church has been charged after being accused of stealing thousands of dollars in funds.

In November, Jimmie Whaley, Jr., was charged with two counts of felony breach of trust.

Whaley allegedly took tens of thousands of dollars from members of his congregation who thought they were just simply paying their tithes, according to investigators.

An arrest warrant states this went on for a year beginning in January 2023 while Whaley was the pastor at Midlands Body of Christ in Columbia.

A former member of the church told WIS News 10 she trusted Whaley Jr and his leadership of the congregation, but now she’s hurt to know all the money she thought was going to God was allegedly going to Whaley Jr’s pockets.

“I feel like he took advantage of me,” said the former church member who did not want to be identified.

The former church member said returning to the building that used to be her home church leaves her with a gut-wrenching feeling.

“I really don’t have any words to describe it,” she said.

The churchgoer began attending the church in January 2023 after saying Whaley was fired from her original church, Sunset Boulevard Church of Christ.

“A group of us felt sorry for him and we followed him wherever he would go,” she said.

The former church member said she had only been attending the new church for about a month before Whaley approached and asked to send money to a different account than what other members of the congregation were sending their money to.

“I didn’t realize that the treasurer of our congregation had funds going to the Bank of America and Jimmie told me and a few other members to send money to him and not the Bank of America.”

She said she sent a minimum of $700 twice a month through Zelle over the year. She stated she received a document from Whaley Jr. showing her contributions for that year were over $18,000.

In 2024 she said she paid well over $13,000 bringing the total to over $30,000 in two years.

“I wish that he’d been more honest with me and more honest with the people because then God would have blessed him. Now, the Lord is in charge, he going to take it in his hands. God’s going to handle him.”

She said found out about this after the church treasurer told her she hadn’t received any contributions from her when she was trying to get tax documents for the year.

However, according to an arrest warrant, Whaley Jr. was accepting money in numerous forms from other people through personal checks, Zelle transfers, CashApp and Apple Pay.

Whaley Jr. was released on a $20,000 bond and is awaiting his first appearance. A date for that has not been set.

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