Duke Energy and the Duke Energy Foundation have launched a monthlong campaign to address food insecurity in South Carolina. The initiative, which began this week, will distribute over $600,000 to more than 60 feeding programs across the state. This support comes at a time when many families rely on assistance as colder weather and the holiday season approach, while food pantries face uncertainty about future funding.
The campaign started with Yam Jam in Greenville on November 6. Nearly 200 volunteers from various organizations helped package close to 50,000 pounds of sweet potatoes for Thanksgiving food boxes. These will be distributed by FoodShare South Carolina hubs and other food programs throughout the state.
In addition to the main campaign funds, Duke Energy Foundation has contributed $105,000 specifically to FoodShare South Carolina organizations within its service area, including $39,000 allocated to Mill Village Farms. A separate donation of $100,000 was also made to the One SC Fund, recently activated by Governor Henry McMaster to support statewide food banks.
Since 2021, Duke Energy and its foundation have provided more than $2.6 million in total support for agencies fighting hunger in South Carolina.
According to statistics cited by Duke Energy, over 750,000 people in South Carolina experience inconsistent access to high-quality meals—representing one out of every seven residents and one out of every six children in the state.
Throughout November, Duke Energy will spotlight key partners such as Harvest Hope Food Bank, Mill Village Farms, Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, FoodShare South Carolina and AIM.
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, president of Duke Energy’s operations in South Carolina 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.”
Residents seeking local feeding partners can search online at SC211.org or text “FOOD” to 211211—a resource developed by United Way Association of South Carolina with initial backing from Duke Energy Foundation.
Duke Energy notes that customers facing challenges affording groceries may also struggle with utility bills; information about managing energy costs is available at duke-energy.com/SeasonalSavings.
The philanthropic arm behind these efforts provides over $30 million annually across communities served by Duke Energy utilities. More details about company initiatives can be found at duke-energy.com or through their social media channels.
