GE Healthcare Awards $20,000 to Pee Dee Coalition to Support Parenting Program

Photo courtesy of The Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce

FLORENCE, SC — February 3, 2026 — Pee Dee Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Assault announced today that it has received a $20,000 contribution from GE HealthCare to support the Coalition’s Parent Education Parent Support (PEPS) program, a proven parenting initiative focused on preventing child abuse and strengthening families throughout the Pee Dee Region.

The contribution continues a partnership between GE HealthCare and the Pee Dee Coalition that spans more than a decade and reflects a shared commitment to improving community health and well-being.  GE HealthCare has long supported the Coalition’s mission through financial investment, volunteer engagement, and leadership involvement at the local level.

“GE HealthCare has been an incredibly committed partner to the Pee Dee Coalition for many years, and this investment in PEPS is a powerful example of how sustained corporate support helps us build a safer, more compassionate community,” said Ellen Hamilton, Executive Director of the Pee Dee Coalition. “Because of this contribution, more parents will gain the skills, confidence, and support they need to build safe and healthy relationships with their children.”

The PEPS program is a 12-week, evidence-based parenting program designed for parents and caregivers who may be at risk for abusive or neglectful behaviors. First launched in 1996, PEPS combines structured parenting education with peer support, helping participants strengthen communication, manage stress and anger, and better understand child development.  The program is a key component of the Coalition’s Prevent Child Abuse Pee Dee initiative. 

Funding from GE HealthCare will provide ongoing support for PEPS programming across the region, support the Coalition’s 24-hour Parent Helpline, and enhance program offerings such as peer facilitator training and community education.  The program is grounded in nationally recognized research, including findings from the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study, which demonstrates the long-term health impacts of childhood trauma and the importance of early intervention.

Parents who complete PEPS consistently report stronger family relationships, improved parenting confidence, and a greater sense of connection to their community.  By addressing risk factors early and increasing protective factors for children, the program plays a critical role in breaking cycles of abuse and neglect. 

The Pee Dee Coalition, founded in 1986, serves as the region’s primary provider of services for victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse, while also delivering prevention education and professional training across Florence, Darlington, Marion, Marlboro, Dillon, Chesterfield, Williamsburg and Sumter (Durant Children’s Center only) counties. The Pee Dee Coalition is a member of the United Way.