Duke Energy and the Duke Energy Foundation have concluded a monthlong campaign aimed at supporting organizations that address food insecurity in South Carolina. The initiative resulted in nearly $275,000 in surprise microgrants and contributions to more than 60 community organizations across the state.
The financial support targeted smaller agencies with programs such as senior mobile food services, weekend backpack efforts for students, food pantries, and veteran assistance initiatives. This effort was part of a broader campaign that distributed over $600,000 to local partners including Harvest Hope Food Bank, Mill Village Farms, Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, FoodShare South Carolina, One SC Fund, and AIM.
Since 2021, Duke Energy and its foundation have dedicated more than $2.6 million to support agencies working to reduce hunger across South Carolina.
Tim Pearson, Duke Energy’s South Carolina president said: “If you grew up in South Carolina, you are likely familiar with a ‘surcee’ – a small, unexpected gift. Giving Tuesday is the perfect opportunity to give a little something extra and highlight the great work these organizations do throughout the year to help keep our friends and neighbors from going hungry.”
Mark Champagne, executive director of Sumter United Ministries stated: “Thanks to the generosity of the Duke Energy Foundation’s $5,000 grant, we will be able to place food into the hands of neighbors who are struggling more than I’ve seen in many years. As requests continue to rise and our shelves grow thin, this gift brings real hope at a time when our community truly needs it.”
Traci H. Kennedy from TOTAL Ministries added: “We so appreciate everything Duke Energy Foundation does for TOTAL Ministries. The grant is making an immediate and meaningful difference, allowing us to meet rising needs and care for families who are struggling the most.”
Melinda Waddell of The Manna House said: “The support from Duke Energy for our mission to create a hunger-free Florence allows us to continue to provide hot, healthy, nutritious meals to our clients. With more than 100,000 individual meals served in 2024, we truly appreciate their dedication and commitment to our neighbors and community.”
Andrea White of Food Bank of Greenwood commented: “The grant from the Duke Energy Foundation ensures we can continue providing critical resources to our neighbors, helping stabilize households and improve overall community well-being throughout the Lakelands.”
Recent data indicates that over 750,000 people in South Carolina face challenges accessing high-quality meals consistently—equivalent to one out of every seven residents—and children represent one-sixth of those affected.
Duke Energy encourages individuals interested in supporting local feeding programs or seeking assistance themselves to visit SC211.org or text “FOOD” to 211211—a service managed by United Way Association of South Carolina with initial backing from Duke Energy Foundation.
For customers experiencing difficulty managing utility bills alongside other expenses such as food costs during challenging times, information about energy bill assistance is available at duke-energy.com/SeasonalSavings.
The Duke Energy Foundation provides over $30 million annually for philanthropic causes within communities where its customers live and work. Funded by company shareholders rather than ratepayers or customers directly (source not needed), these donations aim at addressing key local needs.
Duke Energy serves millions across several states including North Carolina South Carolina, Florida Indiana, Ohio Kentucky through its electric utilities while also operating natural gas services for additional regions. More details about company operations can be found on their official website or social media channels.
