Duke Energy and the Duke Energy Foundation have launched a monthlong campaign to support efforts against hunger in South Carolina. The initiative will distribute more than $600,000 to over 60 feeding programs across the state as colder weather and the holiday season approach. The campaign started with “Yam Jam,” a volunteer event in Greenville where nearly 200 participants from various organizations helped bag about 50,000 pounds of sweet potatoes for Thanksgiving food boxes.
The effort comes at a time when many assistance programs face uncertainty due to depleted resources and unclear government funding timelines. Since 2021, Duke Energy and its foundation have contributed more than $2.6 million to similar agencies.
This year’s campaign includes a $100,000 donation to the One SC Fund, recently activated by Governor Henry McMaster, which aims to support food banks throughout South Carolina. In addition, the Duke Energy Foundation provided $105,000 to FoodShare South Carolina organizations within its service area, including $39,000 specifically for Mill Village Farms.
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.”
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.”
Statistics indicate that more than 750,000 people in South Carolina lack consistent access to quality meals—approximately one out of every seven residents—and children are especially affected.
Throughout November, Duke Energy plans to highlight several community partners involved in fighting hunger. Organizations include Harvest Hope Food Bank, Mill Village Farms, Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, FoodShare South Carolina and AIM.
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 support from Duke Energy Foundation.
Duke Energy Foundation annually provides over $30 million in philanthropic support for communities served by its parent company. Duke Energy serves electric customers across six states and natural gas customers across five states while pursuing an energy transition focused on grid upgrades and cleaner generation sources such as renewables and energy storage.
More information about assistance with energy bills is available at duke-energy.com/SeasonalSavings.
