#United States #Duke Energy #Share the Light Fund #South Carolina #Greenville, South Carolina

Duke Energy's Ongoing Community Support

As winter approaches, the importance of community support becomes particularly evident. Duke Energy, one of America's leading energy companies, is taking significant steps to support families in South Carolina during this challenging season. Collaborating with local organizations, Duke Energy is committed to ensuring that those in need have access to the resources necessary for safety, warmth, and connectivity.

The Share the Light Fund Experience

This holiday season, as temperatures plummet, many families are relying more heavily on community assistance to get through tough times. Through the Share the Light Fund, Duke Energy, along with its Foundation, customers, and employees, has contributed over $670,000 to various community agencies in South Carolina this year alone. This initiative has proven crucial in helping families maintain warm and powered homes when it matters most.

Since its inception in 2022, the Share the Light Fund has awarded over $11 million to nonprofit partners across the nation, aimed at connecting customers with the assistance they need. Amanda Dow, the Director of Duke Energy Foundation in South Carolina, emphasizes the emotional impact of these initiatives, stating, "Behind every request for help is a story—a family, a friend, a community member working to get through a tough time. We are proud to support our neighbors in their moment of need."

Long-Standing Partnerships with Local Organizations

Local nonprofits like Anderson Interfaith Ministries (AIM) have benefited for the past 35 years from consistent funding provided by Duke Energy through various programs. According to Kristi King-Brock, the executive director at AIM, this long-term partnership has enabled them to assist thousands of low-income individuals and families with their utility bills. The support from Duke Energy has created a significant impact on their ability to provide essential services to those who require it the most.

Another organization, G.R.A.S.P., has expressed gratitude for similar backing, emphasizing the partnership's role in empowering families facing tough decisions between utility bills and other basic needs. Shelley L. Price, G.R.A.S.P.'s executive director, shared, "This funding allows us to provide critical assistance to families and individuals, strengthening our community and ensuring that no one goes without essential services during times of need."

How to Access Help and Give Back

Duke Energy also encourages customers in need of assistance to utilize their Payment Assistance Finder, which connects them to local agencies that can provide the necessary support. For those who wish to contribute, the Share the Light Fund welcomes both recurring and one-time donations, helping to bring comfort to those who need it most this winter.

Addressing Barriers to Assistance

Despite the numerous programs available, many homes in the Palmetto State have been unable to benefit from weatherization efforts due to pre-existing health and safety issues. In recognition of this challenge, Duke Energy awarded $125,000 in microgrants to South Carolina nonprofits in 2025, aimed at facilitating necessary repairs that allow households to qualify for energy efficiency improvements.

In addition to direct assistance, Duke Energy has also increased incentives and expanded eligibility for its energy efficiency and demand response programs, providing customers with various ways to save on both energy costs and consumption. More information on these programs is available at duke-energy.com/SeasonalSavings.

Duke Energy's Future Direction

Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) serves over 8.6 million customers across six states, including South Carolina. As a Fortune 150 company, it is committed to a sustainable energy future that prioritizes reliability and customer value. The company is continuously investing in electric grid advancements and cleaner energy generation, focusing on technologies such as natural gas, nuclear, renewables, and energy storage.

For updates about their initiatives, Duke Energy encourages everyone to visit their website, engage on social media platforms, and explore inspiring stories about their impact through the illumination platform. Together, we can build a stronger and more supportive community for all this winter season and beyond.