Duke Energy and the Duke Energy Foundation have launched a monthlong campaign to support organizations in South Carolina that address food insecurity. The effort will provide more than $600,000 to over 60 feeding programs across the state as colder weather and the holiday season approach.
The campaign began with Yam Jam, a volunteer event in Greenville where nearly 200 volunteers helped bag almost 50,000 pounds of sweet potatoes for Thanksgiving food boxes. These boxes will be distributed by FoodShare South Carolina hubs and other food programs statewide.
This year’s initiative also includes a $100,000 contribution to the One SC Fund, which was recently activated by Governor Henry McMaster to assist food banks throughout South Carolina. In addition, the Duke Energy Foundation contributed $105,000 to FoodShare South Carolina organizations within its service area, including $39,000 directed to Mill Village Farms.
Since 2021, Duke Energy and its foundation have dedicated over $2.6 million to support hunger relief agencies in South Carolina.
According to statistics cited by Duke Energy, more than 750,000 people in South Carolina lack consistent access to high-quality meals—representing one in seven residents and one in six children.
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 South Carolina, stated: “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.”
Throughout November, Duke Energy plans to highlight several community partners 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.
The United Way Association of South Carolina offers an online search tool at SC211.org or via text message (“FOOD” sent to 211211) for those seeking local feeding partners—a platform initially supported by funding from Duke Energy Foundation.
Duke Energy Foundation provides over $30 million annually for philanthropic initiatives benefiting communities served by Duke Energy customers. The company itself is among America’s largest energy holding companies with electric utilities serving 8.6 million customers across multiple states.
More information about assistance with energy bills during difficult times can be found at duke-energy.com/SeasonalSavings.
