International Paper (IP) Announces Closure-Rapid Response Team Activated

After nearly 90 years as a valued member of our community, International Paper (IP) Company plans to close its Georgetown County location. IP’s departure marks a significant change for many workers, contractors, families, small businesses and nonprofits who have benefitted from the company’s presence in the community.

In response, the SC Works Waccamaw team is actively meeting with leaders at IP, Georgetown County, the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce (SC DEW) and other partners to coordinate a comprehensive and broad based response to aid affected employees and community partners in both the short and long term.

The SC DEW Works Rapid Response team has been activated and is planning on-site informational sessions for IP employees in the coming week. In addition, events to connect IP employees directly to new employment opportunities are being planned as well as other activities to support employees as they transition.

For those that are not IP employee’s, but have been laid off or experienced a reduction in hours as a result of the mill closure, they are automatically eligible for services and can learn more at waccamawworks.org or by visiting the local SC Works Office located at 1105 Church Street, Georgetown, SC.

SC Works Waccamaw takes seriously its commitment to coordinate support for our community during this time and will strive to timely provide information about upcoming informational sessions and events as it becomes available.