Duke Energy and the Duke Energy Foundation have launched a monthlong campaign to address food insecurity in South Carolina, providing more than $600,000 to support over 60 feeding programs across the state. The initiative comes as colder weather and the holiday season increase demand for assistance, while many local programs face challenges due to uncertain funding.
The campaign began on November 6 with “Yam Jam,” a volunteer event in Greenville where nearly 200 volunteers from various organizations helped package 50,000 pounds of sweet potatoes for Thanksgiving food boxes. These boxes will be distributed by FoodShare South Carolina hubs and other food programs throughout the state.
This year’s effort includes a $100,000 contribution to the One SC Fund, recently activated by Governor Henry McMaster to aid food banks statewide. Additionally, the Duke Energy Foundation provided $105,000 to FoodShare South Carolina organizations within its service area, including $39,000 allocated specifically to Mill Village Farms.
Dan Weidenbenner, executive director of Mill Village Farms and Mill Village Ministries, said: “As we enter the holiday season, Mill Village Ministries remains steadfast in our commitment to ensuring food access for every resident in our community. In the wake of reduced federal support, Mill Village Farms’ FoodShare program is stepping up to fill the gap – bringing fresh, affordable produce directly to neighborhoods where it’s needed most. Thanks to the continued partnership of Duke Energy and the generosity of our community, we’re able to stand in the gap for our neighbors and make sure everyone has access to the healthy food they deserve.”
Tim Pearson, Duke Energy’s South Carolina president, added: “Our hope is by shining a light on these organizations they will continue to receive the support they need to help address the real problem of hunger in our communities. They are fighting the good fight every day in communities across our state, but now more than ever they cannot do it alone.”
Food insecurity remains widespread across South Carolina. According to recent statistics cited by Duke Energy, more than 750,000 residents—about one in seven people—do not have consistent access to high-quality meals. Among them are approximately one in six children.
Throughout November, Duke Energy will spotlight several partner organizations involved in hunger relief efforts such as Harvest Hope Food Bank, Mill Village Farms, Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, FoodShare South Carolina and AIM.
To help those seeking local resources or wishing to contribute time or money towards combating hunger can search online at SC211.org or text “FOOD” to 211211—a platform managed by United Way Association of South Carolina with initial support from Duke Energy Foundation.
Duke Energy Foundation provides over $30 million annually for philanthropic initiatives that benefit communities served by its customers. The foundation is funded entirely by company shareholders.
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), based in Charlotte, North Carolina and listed among Fortune 150 companies,
serves electric utility customers across six states—including North Carolina and South Carolina—and supplies natural gas services across five states.
The company continues investing heavily in modernizing its electric grid infrastructure and increasing use of cleaner energy sources such as renewables and energy storage.
More information can be found at duke-energy.com.
