Duke Energy eases food insecurity with $500K
Duke Energy Foundation workers in Florence packed a huge number of boxes to ease food insecurity across South Carolina
Duke Energy and the Duke Energy Foundation are providing more than $500,000 to support nearly 70 South Carolina organizations during the monthlong “Powering Plates. Nourishing Neighbors.” campaign, which raises awareness of food insecurity and spotlights the groups helping residents access nutritious food.
More than 865,000 South Carolinians – including 1 in 5 children – lack consistent access to nutritious meals. The need is statewide and year-round, but community feeding programs often see demand rise during colder months and the holiday season.
“Powering Plates. Nourishing Neighbors.” is about bringing communities together to fight hunger. The Duke Energy Foundation is investing more than $500,000 with organizations across the state, and the campaign pairs grants with employee volunteer projects designed to spotlight the people and programs closest to the need.
• More than $500,000 supporting nearly 70 organizations
• More than 865,000 South Carolinians affected by food insecurity
• $130,000 in Giving Tuesday microgrants
• More than $3.1 million provided to organizations fighting hunger since 2021
“Food insecurity can be easy to miss, but it touches every part of our state,” said Tim Pearson, Duke Energy South Carolina president. “Our role is to help shine a light on the need, stand beside the trusted organizations doing this work every day and encourage others to get involved. These partners know their communities best, and their work is making a meaningful difference for children, families, students and older adults across our state.”
The campaign launches with FoodShare South Carolina activities in Florence, Mill Village Farms’ Yam Jam in Greenville and a Hidden Wounds meal-packing event in Sumter.
On Nov. 4, volunteers packed and distributed 200 fresh-food boxes in the Pee Dee as My Brother’s Keeper Shelter and FoodShare South Carolina announced a permanent FoodShare hub in Florence.
“Healthy food shouldn’t depend on your ZIP code, said Ashley Page Bookhart, Director of Programs at FoodShare South Carolina, “With My Brother’s Keeper Shelter as our partner and Duke Energy’s support, we’re building something lasting in Florence, a place where families across the Pee Dee can count on fresh, nutritious food.”
“No veteran should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from,” said Dr. Lance Newman, Hidden Wounds Executive Director, “Especially during a time of year when families come together to give thanks. For the second year in a row, Hidden Wounds is proud to partner with Duke Energy to help address food insecurity among our veterans and ensure those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom have food on their tables this Thanksgiving.”
Throughout November, Duke Energy Foundation grants will support senior meal delivery, FoodShare South Carolina distributions, technical college food pantries, weekend backpack programs, community food banks and holiday meals. Duke Energy employees will pack and deliver meals, prepare food bags for students and assist with distributions statewide.
On Giving Tuesday, Dec. 1, the campaign will conclude with $130,000 in unsolicited “surcee” microgrants. South Carolinians know surcees as small, unexpected gifts, and these microgrants will go to dozens of community organizations meeting critical local needs.
South Carolinians can volunteer, donate or find nearby food resources at SC211.org or by texting “FOOD” to 211211. Duke Energy customers facing difficult financial choices can find energy-saving and bill-management resources at duke-energy.com/SeasonalSavings.
More information is available at duke-energy.com.