News

By: Chaunte’ Causey, Communications Manager, PCC

What is the Universal Service Fund?

The USF is a fund the federal government uses to make sure people in all parts of the country—especially rural areas—can get access to phone and internet at an affordable rate. Telecom companies contribute to the fund and often pass the cost on to customers as a small line item on their phone bills. The funds support:

• Rural homes and businesses
• Tribal lands
• Schools and libraries
• Health clinics and telehealth programs

Why Did the Court Get Involved?

Some groups argued the FCC did not have the authority to collect these fees and give the money to the Universal Service Fund. They claimed it was an unconstitutional tax.
However, the Supreme Court disagreed, ruling that Congress had granted the FCC the authority to manage the program and that the process was lawful and necessary. (Read more from Reuters)

What This Means for Rural South Carolina

This ruling protects funding that helps people in rural areas stay connected to doctors, schools, and family. FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez said it best: ending the fund would hurt millions of Americans. However, she also suggested that Congress should explore ways to modernize the program. (Read More from TV Technology)

Why PCC Cares

By: Chaunte’ Causey, Communications Manager, PCC

Community Health Improvement Week (CHIW), observed June 9–13, is a national opportunity to recognize the people, partnerships, and programs that are making communities healthier. At Palmetto Care Connections (PCC), this week holds special meaning as we reflect on the progress we’ve made—alongside our partners—to close healthcare gaps across rural South Carolina through innovation, collaboration, and heart.

Our mission has always been rooted in one simple but powerful belief: where you live shouldn’t determine if—or how—you get care. This year’s CHIW theme, “We Are Healthcare”, is a reminder that improving community health isn’t just about hospital systems or medical charts. It’s about neighbors checking in, local libraries hosting telehealth visits, and older adults learning to use tablets to speak with their doctors from home.

What PCC Is Doing to Improve Community Health

During CHIW and every week of the year, our team is focused on building digital bridges to better health:

• Telehealth Access Points: We’ve partnered with libraries, schools, and community centers to install telehealth equipment in places people already go—making healthcare more convenient, especially in rural areas.

• Digital Literacy Training: Through statewide training programs, we teach seniors, caregivers, and underserved populations how to safely use technology for telehealth and other essential services.

• Broadband Advocacy: We work alongside government agencies, internet service providers, and nonprofit partners to expand broadband infrastructure—because no one should have to choose between gas money and a doctor’s visit.

• Support for Providers: By offering technology solutions and technical assistance to rural clinics and hospitals, we help providers stay connected and patients stay informed.

Get Involved

Community Health Improvement Week is also a call to action. Whether you’re a caregiver, healthcare worker, or just someone who wants to help, here are a few ways to get involved:

• Help a neighbor or family member sign up for school-based telehealth.

• Volunteer to support one of our digital literacy events.

• Share our resources with someone who might not know about them.

• Advocate for broadband and telehealth access in your local community.

Together, we can continue creating a future where care is more accessible, more connected, and more personal—no matter where you live.

By: Chaunte’ Causey, Communications Manager, PCC

If you’ve had the pleasure of meeting Emma, you know she’s not just crunching numbers—she’s helping drive impact across South Carolina. As Finance Director at PCC, Emma oversees all financial operations to ensure the organization remains in strong financial standing while complying with laws and regulations. She’s also helping pave the way for long-term growth through smart strategy and a heart for service.

Emma joined PCC with deep roots in nonprofit finance. After time away from the sector, she felt a pull to return to work that fuels her passion. “I researched several area non-profits, considered their mission, and reached out to PCC. After talking with Kathy for just a few minutes, I knew this was where I wanted to be.”

Originally from East Tennessee and a longtime South Carolina resident, Emma understands the challenges of rural life—and the power of broadband and telehealth to bridge those gaps. “I wanted to be a part of the mission to help rural and underserved communities by connecting them to quality services. Telehealth platforms have the potential to transform global healthcare delivery, and I want to be part of that.”

While she’s only been with PCC a short time, Emma says it didn’t take long to feel at home. “The team’s enthusiasm and support are incredible. When everyone is working toward the same goal, you can achieve a greater impact—and that’s what I missed most about nonprofit work.”

Outside of work, Emma has a few unexpected passions! She’s a proud FFDP (Five Finger Death Punch) groupie, a wildlife watcher with her own backyard bird sanctuary, and a devoted volunteer for Rottweiler and Basset Hound rescues.

Her favorite quote changes by the day, but today’s mantra says it all: “I will achieve great things through small steps.”