| S.C. unemployment claims drop for 5th consecutive week Since March 15, the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce has received 515,595 initial claims and paid out more than $1.35 billion in state and federal benefits. For the week ending May 16, 29,446 claims were filed. SC Housing providing $5 million in rent assistance The housing agency is providing approximately $5 million in rent assistance to S.C. residents facing financial hardship related to COVID-19. Eligible renters can receive up to $1,500 in one-time payments directly to landlords. | 