Michelle Altman, Rural Health Extension Agent – Hampton County
FoodShare SC is an organization based out of Columbia, South Carolina. FoodShare SC’s vision is to ensure access to fresh produce for all in our communities. FoodShare SC’s goal is to enhance the quality of life by creating access to fresh, affordable food. FoodShare SC partners with reputable organizations in communities to expand the reach of the program. In the Savannah Valley region, Huspah Missionary Baptist Church in Hampton County wanted to address food insecurity in their community. Leaders of the church met with FoodShare SC leaders to discuss placing a hub in Hampton County. Huspah Missionary Baptist Church leaders made site visits to hubs in Bamberg and Orangeburg to participate in their produce packing days. Church leaders reached out to Clemson Extension for technical assistance.
Huspah Missionary Baptist Church had its inaugural packing day in July. Produce boxes are 12 X 12 X 12 cardboard boxes containing 8 to 12 fresh fruits and vegetables. Each box contains a recipe card pertaining to the produce in the box. The church is in the process of applying for the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP). The produce box costs $15.00. With SNAP, the participant would be charged $5.00. Twice a month, the church receives a truckload of fresh produce and packs boxes for the community.
If you are interested in volunteering, purchasing a box, or learning more information, please reach out to Huspah Missionary Baptist Church at 803-943-0033 or Hampton County Clemson Extension at 803-943-3427. FoodShare SC sites in the Savannah Valley include Orangeburg, Bamberg, and Hampton.
Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to people of all ages, regardless of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital or family status and is an equal opportunity employer.
