Jesus’ words are at the heart of the mission of the Office of Immigration Services of Catholic Charities of South Carolina. As Catholics, caring for immigrants and their families is more than a social service. It is an expression of our faith and a response to Christ’s call to recognize and serve him in our brothers and sisters, especially those who are vulnerable, uncertain or far from home.

The Catholic Church teaches that every person possesses an inherent, God-given dignity. Whether born in South Carolina or arriving from another part of the world, every person is created in the image and likeness of God. Every person deserves dignity, compassion and respect.

Guided by this belief, the Office of Immigration Services accompanies immigrants and their families through the complexities of the U.S. immigration system. The office provides legal immigration assistance to eligible individuals and families, including citizenship and naturalization services, and guidance with family-based immigration matters. It also provides community education and outreach, helping immigrants, families, parishes and communities access reliable information and resources.

This work is deeply personal. Behind every immigration matter is a person and a story: parents seeking stability for their children, spouses hoping to remain together, grandparents longing for family reunification and men and women pursuing the privilege and responsibility of U.S. citizenship.

Our ministry is rooted in Catholic social teaching, including the dignity of the human person, the importance of family, solidarity with those in need and the call to welcome the stranger. The Church recognizes the legitimate responsibility of nations to regulate their borders and promote the common good. At the same time, our faith reminds us that every immigrant is first a human person, created and loved by God.

Pope Leo XIV has affirmed the important work of Catholic Charities in serving those in need, including migrants and refugees. In his October 2025 message to the Catholic Charities USA Network, he called Catholic Charities “agents of hope” and said that through ministries such as legal assistance, they make “the Lord’s providence concrete” in the lives of vulnerable people.

These words capture the heart of our ministry. Our work is more than helping someone complete an application or understand an immigration process. It is an opportunity to accompany a brother or sister, strengthen families, uphold human dignity and make God’s love visible through concrete acts of service.

In his message for the 111th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, Pope Leo also reminded us that migrants and refugees are our “brothers and sisters” and that communities that welcome them can become “a living witness to hope.”

The Office of Immigration Services is one way the Church in South Carolina puts this faith into action. Through professional immigration assistance, help with citizenship and naturalization applications, family-based immigration guidance, community education and compassionate accompaniment, we walk alongside our immigrant brothers and sisters during important and often difficult moments in their lives.

Charity is not an abstract idea. It is the love of Christ made visible in our encounter with another person. When we welcome the stranger, accompany a family, or help someone find a path forward, we can encounter Christ himself.

May our work always reflect his words: For I was “a stranger and you welcomed me” (Mt 25:35).

How to get help

Individuals and families who need assistance with an immigration matter are encouraged to contact the Office of Immigration Services of Catholic Charities of South Carolina. Please contact the appropriate office for information about services, consultations and appointments.

Greenville/Berea Office

2300 Old Buncombe Road

Greenville, SC 29609

864-274-0141

Monday-Friday: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Charleston Office

127 St. Philip St.

Charleston, SC 29403

843-388-0089

Monday-Friday: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Conway Hybrid Program

1071 Academy Dr.

Conway, SC 29526

843-347-1441

Fridays: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

We do not represent asylum/refugee seekers or take removal defense cases.

Parishes and Catholic organizations interested in immigration education and community outreach are also encouraged to contact the Office of Immigration Services to learn more about available resources and opportunities to serve immigrant families throughout South Carolina. Visit charitiessc.org.

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