The Lowcountry Food Bank in Charleston County, South Carolina, reports rising food insecurity affecting over 204,000 residents across 10 coastal counties, with holidays amplifying the strain due to higher food costs and stretched budgets. The organization, partnering with 240 agencies, distributed extra food this year amid challenges like a prior government shutdown delaying SNAP benefits, bolstered by community donations from groups such as Coastal Community Foundation and Trident United Way.​
Key Challenges
Seniors increasingly seek assistance as expenses rise, making year-end months the busiest for pantries. Chief development officer Brenda Shaw emphasized providing aid to ease holiday stress and help families stretch dollars.​
Community Response
Local efforts include the Charleston Area Justice Ministry (CAJM) targeting food insecurity for action, planning to present solutions to officials in April. Volunteers and donors have stepped up to ensure neighbors receive support, aligning with calls to “love our neighbor.”
