AgFirst partners with FoodShare South Carolina to reduce food insecurity

Despite its rich agricultural heritage, the Palmetto State is one of the hungriest states in the nation. About 7% of South Carolinians don’t have enough food to eat, while another 9% have enough, but it’s not of high quality, according to the Department of Health and Environmental Control. 

Recognizing the dual challenges of poverty and food insecurity, AgFirst Farm Credit Bank is proud to support FoodShare South Carolina as they supply fresh fruits and vegetables to area residents without the means to buy healthy food daily. For the past two years, the bank has contributed $10,000 to support the organization’s overall mission and to help build a new facility in Northeast Columbia, which recently opened. AgFirst employees also routinely volunteer to pack boxes filled with nine to 11 varieties of fresh fruits and vegetables offered at a reduced cost. 

The relationship between FoodShare and AgFirst is a natural fit, since the nonprofit distributes healthy produce to the needy, while the bank supports area farmers who cultivate these essential crops. 

FoodShare recently celebrated its move from the State Farmers Market to its new location near Columbia Place Mall with an open house and ribbon-cutting for its new teaching kitchen and Richland County distribution hub. Equipped with 30 cooking stations, the kitchen will be used to teach seniors attending the University of South Carolina’s School of Medicine and community members how to prepare healthy, delicious meals at home. 

AgFirst is proud to partner with FoodShare to make a tangible impact on families grappling with food insecurity.