Duke Energy Launches Monthlong Campaign to Combat Hunger in South Carolina

Duke Energy's Campaign Against Hunger

In a commendable effort to tackle food insecurity, Duke Energy, along with the Duke Energy Foundation, has launched a monthlong campaign aimed at providing wealthier and more stable support to organizations fighting hunger in South Carolina. This initiative comes at a critical time as many families in the state face the dual challenges of colder weather and the festive season, which often exacerbates the strain on food assistance programs.

Support to Local Feeding Programs

With an impressive $600,000 earmarked for distribution, the campaign is set to impact over 60 feeding programs throughout South Carolina. This venture not only highlights Duke Energy's ongoing commitment to the community but also aims to alleviate the persistent funding uncertainties that these vital services experience. The support will help organizations prepare for the increased demand that typically accompanies the holiday season.

The campaign kicked off on November 6, with an event known as Yam Jam in Greenville. Volunteers from Duke Energy and various organizations worked collaboratively to package a staggering 50,000 pounds of sweet potatoes. These fresh potatoes will be an essential element of Thanksgiving food boxes, distributed by various food programs across the state.

This initiative is a part of Duke Energy's larger mission, which, since 2021, has already allocated more than $2.6 million to assist local feeding programs. This year, they are responding to a growing need by contributing an additional $100,000 to the One SC Fund, a fund initiated by Governor Henry McMaster that specifically addresses food bank shortages in the state.

The Dire Need for Assistance

The urgency of this campaign is underscored by alarming statistics. In South Carolina, over 750,000 individuals—including one in six children—face hunger on a daily basis. Many food pantries are struggling to meet the rising demand, often running low on supplies and funding. As federal support dwindles, local organizations like Harvest Hope Food Bank and Mill Village Farms are stepping up the challenge to ensure that food access is available to every resident, especially during these challenging winter months.

Tim Pearson, Duke Energy's president in South Carolina, stated, "Our hope is that by shining a light on these organizations, they will continue to receive the support they need to address the real problem of hunger in our communities. It's an ongoing effort, and they cannot do it alone."

Celebrating Community Partnerships

Duke Energy is dedicated to not only fundraising but also encouraging employees to volunteer their time and expertise. Throughout November, the company plans to showcase its vital community partners, such as Harvest Hope Food Bank, Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, and FoodShare South Carolina, among others. Through these partnerships, Duke Energy aspires to amplify the critical work being done to combat hunger across the state.

The monthlong campaign has started strong, and community mobilization has been a key element. Local residents and organizations are encouraged to contribute, whether through monetary donations or by volunteering hours at local food banks and feeding programs.

For those looking to assist, finding a feeding partner can be done easily through SC211.org or by texting "FOOD" to 211211. This platform was created and managed by the United Way Association of South Carolina, with funding from Duke Energy Foundation to help streamline assistance for those in need.

Conclusion

As Duke Energy continues this pivotal campaign through November, they invite the state of South Carolina to join in their fight against hunger. The collaborative efforts of the company, local organizations, and the community at large underscore the importance of unity in addressing food insecurity. Every contribution, regardless of size, plays a vital role in ensuring that families have access to the nutrition they need this holiday season and beyond. For families navigating tough choices between bills and essential groceries, resources for energy management are also available at duke-energy.com/SeasonalSavings.

Duke Energy remains committed to transforming energy access and community needs, embodying the spirit of resilience as they help their neighbors in their time of need.