Duke Energy Launches $600,000 Campaign to Combat Hunger in South Carolina

On November 7, 2025, Duke Energy Corp announced the launch of its annual monthlong campaign aimed at addressing food insecurity in South Carolina. With winter and the holiday season approaching, the initiative is timely, as many families in the state increasingly rely on assistance programs to meet their nutritional needs. The campaign, supported by the Duke Energy Foundation, will allocate over $600,000 to more than 60 feeding programs statewide, culminating in surprise grant announcements on Giving Tuesday.

As food pantries and support funds face unprecedented challenges, the need for assistance has never been greater. Recent statistics reveal that more than 750,000 individuals in South Carolina lack consistent access to high-quality meals, with one in seven residents experiencing hunger daily. Alarmingly, this includes one in six children, underscoring the importance of timely interventions.

Tim Pearson, Duke Energy's South Carolina president, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "Our hope is by shining a light on these organizations, they will continue to receive the support they need to help address the real problem of hunger in our communities."

Duke Energy's campaign includes a significant contribution of $100,000 to the One SC Fund, recently launched by Governor Henry McMaster to bolster food banks across the state. Furthermore, Duke Energy employees will dedicate their time and talents to volunteer with various organizations throughout November, reinforcing the company's commitment to community engagement.

This year’s campaign kicked off on November 6, when Duke Energy collaborated with Mill Village Farms, WYFF, Bon Secours Wellness Arena, and nearly 200 volunteers to bag close to 50,000 pounds of sweet potatoes for Thanksgiving food boxes. These boxes will be distributed by FoodShare South Carolina and other food programs statewide.

Duke Energy has partnered with several organizations that are instrumental in combatting hunger, including Harvest Hope Food Bank, Mill Village Farms, Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, and FoodShare South Carolina. The Duke Energy Foundation also contributed $105,000 to FoodShare South Carolina organizations, including $39,000 specifically allocated to Mill Village Farms.

Dan Weidenbenner, executive director of Mill Village Farms, expressed gratitude for the partnership with Duke Energy, stating, "Thanks to the continued partnership of Duke Energy and the generosity of our community, we're able to stand in the gap for our neighbors and make sure everyone has access to the healthy food they deserve."

The campaign aims not only to provide immediate assistance but also to raise awareness about the ongoing struggle against food insecurity in every community across South Carolina. Duke Energy encourages all residents to support local food banks and soup kitchens, whether through volunteering or monetary donations.

To facilitate connections with local feeding partners, individuals can visit SC211.org or text "FOOD" to 211211. This initiative, managed by the United Way Association of South Carolina, was developed with support from the Duke Energy Foundation.

Recognizing that families facing food insecurity often struggle with energy bills as well, Duke Energy is committed to providing information and resources to help customers manage their energy costs during difficult times. The company encourages those in need to learn more about available assistance programs by visiting duke-energy.com/SeasonalSavings.

Duke Energy's monthlong campaign to combat hunger in South Carolina stands as a testament to the company's dedication to community welfare and corporate social responsibility. As the need for food assistance grows, initiatives like these play a crucial role in supporting vulnerable populations, ensuring that families can access the nourishment they need during the colder months and beyond.