Meet the Moms of Sumter Addicts Prayer Group

In 2022, nearly 60% of Americans over the age of 12 used illicit drugs, alcohol or tobacco products within the previous month, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Of this group, nearly 20% reported having a substance abuse disorder within the last year.

With the prevalence of such diseases, it is important to remember substance abuse disorders are not only physically and mentally difficult for those suffering with them, but also their loved ones who wish to see them safe and happy.

That is why Kristen Morgan founded Moms of Sumter Addicts, or MOSA Prayer Group.

Morgan, a mother of four, moved to Sumter six years ago. Freshly in a new location, she was shocked to learn that two of her sons were struggling with drug and alcohol addictions. Feeling alone in her realization and with "zero support system," Morgan searched for support in her church and the local Alcoholics Anonymous (Al-Anon) family group for nearly three years, but she realized what she personally needed most was not yet available in Sumter - a group specifically for mothers of addicts.

"It just hit a point where I was like, 'I need moms' because when you go [to Al-Anon], it can be for any family or friend, and I just started seeing the different dynamic between having a spouse who is an alcoholic versus being a mom," she explained. "That's kind of how the group started."

Morgan emphasized MOSA is not a place to complain or speak badly about family members. It is a place to share the ups and downs of having an child who is addicted, thanking God for all victories - both big and small - in their child's recovery and asking for His guidance along the way.

"I believe God can change things, and He often does," Morgan explained.

MOSA prayer group met for the first time in February 2024 with one member and has steadily grown since. The whole group meets the second Thursday of every month from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Birnie HOPE Center at 210 S. Purdy St.

Holding the meetings at the HOPE Center rather than a specific church prevents those looking to attend meetings or join the group from thinking membership is limited to a certain religion, denomination or background.

"I want any mother of any age, of any race, of any denomination [to join the group]," Morgan said.

Morgan emphasized MOSA is for prayer but also for bonding outside of the group as well. Sometimes, people are afraid to share their struggles with their children's disorders with people who might not understand. The group aims to build a support network of women living through similar situations, Morgan explained.

"My biggest thing is you're not alone. This whole [group] came from my perception that I was alone," she said. "It's a hard journey, and just knowing that there are other people there, too, it just makes it a little easier."

Anyone interested in joining Mothers of Sumter Addicts can simply show up to a meeting or email mosa.prayer@gmail.com. There is no membership cost.