Greenwood County First Steps is a local partnership of South Carolina First Steps, the state’s dedicated early childhood initiative. As with each local partnership, we operate as an independent nonprofit with a local board and staff. Because our community has unique needs and resources, we tailor our offerings to best meet the needs of local families.

"You Are Your Child's First Teacher!"

  • in 2019, Greenwood County had a population of 70,811, and 4,280 of those were children 0-5 years of age.
  • 60.4% of children in Greenwood County are born to single or unwed parents.
  • 27% of children ages 0-5 in South Carolina are at risk for developmental delays.
  • 15.6% of children in Greenwood County are born to single mothers with less than a high school diploma.
  • In 2019 Greenwood County had a total of 840 live births.
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Palmetto Pre-K

Palmetto Pre-K is your one-stop shop for finding free educational preschool programs in South Carolina..

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Check your eligibility, search for a program near you, learn how to apply.

First Steps 4K

South Carolina First Steps is the state’s only dedicated, comprehensive early childhood initiative focused on getting children ready for school and life success.

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South Carolina First Steps
636 Rosewood Drive
Columbia, SC 29201
Tel: (803) 734-0479

Website: scfirststeps.org
First 5 Childcare Services

First Five SC is a collaborative effort of SC public services and supported by the Early Childhood Advisory Council. We connect families with South Carolina's public services for young children.

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Find the support your child needs from birth through age five.


Website: first5sc.org
Moving Towards the Future
Greenwood County First Steps works collaboratively to ensure that all children start school ready to reach their highest potential with engaged support from their parents, caregivers, and communities. Our 2024-26 Comprehensive Plan, is a two-year strategic engagement emphasizing how we will achieve our mission and move toward our vision of success for every child.
Read our Comprehensive Plan 2024-2026
FY24 Greenwood Strategic Plan -Final 2024-2026_Page_01