40 Years of Caring & Serving

Our History … Who We Are

Tidelands Community Hospice was one of the first not-for-profit hospices licensed in South Carolina.

1981

Jennie Saussey and Nora Jones

In 1981, community volunteers and members of the medical profession in Georgetown County started the groundwork to bring a compassionate way to care for those with terminal illness. 

Starting with funds from Prince George Winyah Episcopal Churchwomen’s Food Sale in 1981 as seed money, they worked for four years educating, recruiting and raising funds to meet licensure requirements. 

1985

Thanks to their grassroots efforts in March 1985, licensure was granted to serve in Georgetown, Horry and Williamsburg Counties to Hospice of Georgetown County.

In April 1985, with only one paid employee and community nurses, social workers, office staff and trained volunteers giving of their time and skills, its first patient was admitted.

2002

To better reflect the communities served, the decision was made to change Hospice of Georgetown County name.

As serving, being part of and giving back is an integral part of this hospice it was important that “community” be part of the name.

2013

Due to changes in Medicare and Medicaid regulations, Tidelands Community Hospice and Tidelands Health entered a Joint Venture. This allowed a continuum of care in Georgetown, Horry and Williamsburg communities.

*Please note Tidelands Community Hospice does not receive funds from Tidelands Health nor do they play a role in Tidelands Community Hospice’s daily operations.

2014

The joint venture led to the name of Tidelands Community Hospice; Inc. being changed to Tidelands Community Hospice Foundation. The Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit organization.

The Foundation supports and brings awareness of the services provided by Tidelands Community Hospice.

2023

In December 2023, to better meet the needs of those served, Tidelands Community Palliative Care was established. It provides care and support to patients with chronic illnesses and those with life-limiting illnesses who are seeking curative treatments.

CURRENT: Continue to be Neighbors Helping Neighbors

Today, Tidelands Community Hospice is the ONLY locally based and governed not-for-profit hospice provider serving Georgetown, Horry and Williamsburg Counties. Since admitting our first patient, we have been privileged to provide care to over 10,000 patients and families. From a paid staff of one in 1985, we currently have over forty paid employees who live and work in the communities we serve. Trained community volunteers continue to play an integral role in all aspects of our services and programs.