COLUMBIA, S.C. — On Thursday, Secretary of State Mark Hammond issued a warning to South Carolina residents about Miracle House of Hope Ministries of Charlotte, an organization that falsely claims to help homeless drug addicts.
“Despite being banned from soliciting in South Carolina, Miracle House of Hope Ministries continues to send solicitors into our state to exploit our generosity,” says Secretary Hammond. “I implore all South Carolinians to be wary of this organization and to donate instead to charities that comply with South Carolina laws requiring financial transparency.”
In March of 2019, officials say Miracle House of Hope Ministries was prohibited from soliciting contributions in South Carolina by order of the South Carolina Administrative Law Court, after failing to register as a charity and file annual financial reports as required under the Solicitation of Charitable Funds Act.
In November of 2019, officials say the Administrative Law Court held the organization in contempt of court for repeatedly violating the injunction, and issued a warrant for the arrest of its chief executive officer, Bruce Little.
Currently, Miracle House of Hope Ministries owes $12,000 in civil fines to the Secretary of State’s Office, according to a news release.
On February 23rd of 2022, the Secretary of State’s Office received several complaints that Miracle House of Hope Ministries was soliciting in Richland and Lexington counties.
Officials say the organization collects cash donations by approaching motorists at busy traffic intersections and handing out flyers, and because Miracle House of Hope Ministries refuses to file financial reports, it is unknown where the cash donations go or how they are used.
“Unfortunately, this organization has run afoul of South Carolina law for years by continuing to send panhandlers across the border,” says Secretary Hammond. “If you are approached by a representative of Miracle House of Hope Ministries, first and foremost—do not give them money. Secondly, contact your local law enforcement agency to let them know that Miracle House of Hope is illegally soliciting in the area. You can also file a complaint with our office online at sos.sc.gov, or by calling 1-888-CHARITI (242-7484). Finally, let your friends and family know to be wary of this illicit organization.”
