Duke Energy and the Duke Energy Foundation have concluded a monthlong campaign aimed at addressing food insecurity in South Carolina by distributing nearly $275,000 in surprise microgrants to more than 60 community organizations. The effort is part of a broader initiative that provided over $600,000 to agencies combating hunger across the state.
The campaign supported programs such as food box distribution, weekend backpack initiatives for students, veteran assistance, and senior mobile meal services. Among the recipients were Harvest Hope Food Bank, Mill Village Farms, Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, FoodShare South Carolina, One SC Fund, and AIM.
These microgrants were not requested by the organizations but were given to recognize the important role smaller agencies play in their communities. Since 2021, Duke Energy and its foundation have contributed more than $2.6 million to support these efforts.
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 commented: “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 from Food Bank of Greenwood said: “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.”
According to data cited by Duke Energy in its announcement (https://www.feedingamerica.org/hunger-in-america/south-carolina), over 750,000 people in South Carolina experience inconsistent access to quality meals—about one out of every seven residents—and one out of six children faces hunger daily.
To connect with local feeding partners or find assistance programs nearby—including those managed by United Way Association of South Carolina—residents can search online at SC211.org or text “FOOD” to 211211.
Duke Energy also highlighted resources available for customers struggling with utility bills due to financial hardship; information about managing energy costs can be found at duke-energy.com/SeasonalSavings.
The Duke Energy Foundation provides over $30 million annually in philanthropic support funded by company shareholders. More information about ongoing initiatives is available on duke-energy.com or through their social media channels.
