South Carolina Region 3 Housing Authority Employee Receives the Governor's Prestigious "Order of the Palmetto" Award

Representative Lonnie Hosey presenting the Order of the Palmetto Award to Peggy Kirkland.

Peggy Kirkland, Resident Initiative Coordinator at the South Carolina Region 3 Housing Authority, was awarded the "Order of the Palmetto" in March. The Order of the Palmetto is the highest civilian honor granted by the Governor of South Carolina. Peggy was awarded this prestigious award for her extraordinary lifetime achievement in her 35 years of service with the housing authority. Peggy was nominated for this award by her son, Lieutenant Eric Kirkland of the Barnwell County's Sheriff's Office.

"I cannot count the number of times a total stranger has told me that my mom helped them when they were homeless or hungry," said Eric, in his nomination package. "The number of lives she has changed, coupled with the programs and organizations she has implemented has positively impacted communities that extend well beyond her home."

Peggy provides services to the communities and residents of Barnwell, Bamberg, Aiken, Hampton, Berkely, Orangeburg and Jasper Counties. She has touched hundreds of lives through her dedication to the housing authority and has provided tools for families to identify, secure and maintain affordable housing. Peggy has worked countless hours in creating events that foster positive relationships with law enforcement, empower local youth, and more.

"I was overjoyed, breathless, and so appreciative to receive such a high honor," said Peggy. "Receiving this award means the world to me, as helping people is a gift from God. It is my passion, and I never do this for recognition."

Robert Thomas, Executive Director of the SC Regional Housing Authority #3 also declared Mar. 12 as "Peggy Kirkland Day" to recognize the impact of community service and selfless giving.

"We congratulate Peggy on receiving the Order of the Palmetto award," said Kristine Foye, Director for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Columbia Field Office. "Peggy and the rest of the housing authority staff have been creative in their approach to create opportunities for residents. She is extremely deserving of this achievement, and we are grateful for the impact she has made in the communities she serves."

The South Carolina Regional Housing Authority creates opportunity for residents by providing affordable housing, case management, and referral assistance to promote self-sufficiency. They provide services through HUD's Public Housing Program and the Housing Choice Voucher Program.

To learn more about the South Carolina Regional Housing Authority, visit www.scrha3.org. To learn more about HUD programs and resources in South Carolina, visit www.hud.gov/south_carolina.

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