Fighting Hunger in South Carolina: Duke Energy's $500K Campaign


11/28/2024


Hunger is a significant issue affecting families across South Carolina, with nearly 700,000 residents lacking reliable access to nutritious meals. This means 1 in 8 people in the state face hunger daily, including 1 in 6 children. As the holiday season and colder weather approach, many families are still grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, as communities work to rebuild and recover.

“These statistics highlight the unfortunate reality for many South Carolina families,” said Tim Pearson, Duke Energy’s South Carolina state president. “That’s why supporting organizations that combat hunger across the state is so important to us.”

In response, Duke Energy and the Duke Energy Foundation have launched a month-long campaign to address food insecurity and inequities across the state. Through this initiative, more than $500,000 will be distributed to over 50 feeding programs, including Mill Village Farms, Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, FoodShare South Carolina, Harvest Hope Food Bank, and AIM. The campaign, coinciding with Giving Tuesday, aims to shine a light on these organizations and ensure they receive ongoing support.

To mark the campaign’s launch, Duke Energy partnered with Mill Village Farms, WYFF, and Bon Secours Wellness Arena for Yam Jam on November 7 in Greenville. The event brought together 170 volunteers who bagged nearly 50,000 pounds of sweet potatoes for Thanksgiving food boxes, distributed by FoodShare South Carolina and other programs. Additionally, the Duke Energy Foundation is contributing $100,000 to FoodShare South Carolina organizations, with $30,000 allocated to Mill Village Farms.

“As the holiday season unfolds and the effects of Hurricane Helene persist, Mill Village Ministries remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring food access for all,” said Dan Weidenbenner, executive director of Mill Village Farms and Mill Village Ministries. “Our FoodShare program is central to this mission, delivering fresh produce to communities regardless of income or location. Duke Energy’s support helps us expand our reach and provide healthy food to more neighbors during these challenging times.”

Throughout the month, Duke Energy employees will also volunteer their time to support food distribution efforts. Activities include packing food boxes, preparing backpacks for student weekend meal programs, and assisting with mobile food programs for seniors.

“We understand that families struggling with food insecurity often face difficult choices, including which bills to pay,” Pearson said. “That’s why we’re also sharing resources to help customers manage their energy bills during tough times.”

Click here to know more about these programs.