Governor Henry McMaster has activated the One SC Fund and directed the South Carolina State Guard to support food banks across the state following an announcement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture that federal funding for SNAP benefits will be halted starting November 1, 2025, due to a federal government shutdown.
“While South Carolina cannot fully replace federal SNAP benefits, we can and we will step up to help our neighbors,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “By activating the One SC Fund and with the assistance of the State Guard, we’re supporting South Carolina families in need. In times like these, South Carolinians are eager to help, and I encourage those who are willing to donate to the One SC Fund or volunteer at your local food bank.”
The One SC Fund is being used as a coordinated charitable giving campaign to provide monetary assistance directly to regional food banks and local feeding partners throughout South Carolina.
Georgia Mjartan, President and CEO of Central Carolina Community Foundation, stated: “The suspension of SNAP benefits will hit our children, seniors, and people with disabilities hardest. We are asking every corporation, foundation, and individual to step up now—so food banks can respond before the gap becomes a catastrophe.”
The South Carolina State Guard (SCSG), which operates separately from the S.C. National Guard and is made up entirely of volunteers, will assist food banks with distribution operations and traffic management as well as other necessary tasks to keep sites safe and efficient amid increased demand.
Sheriff Leon Lott, Commander of the South Carolina State Guard, commented: “This is an opportunity for all of us to work together and take care of those in our state who need our help. The State Guard includes more than 400 men and women, trained and ready for missions like this. Our soldiers will be on the ground assisting food banks and ensuring operations are carried out safely and efficiently.”
Administered by Central Carolina Community Foundation in Columbia since its establishment in 2015 after Hurricane Joaquin—with support from then-Governor Nikki Haley—the One SC Fund serves as a coordinated philanthropic response during disasters. It has previously been activated during Hurricanes Matthew, Florence, Helene, as well as during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Donations can be made directly through www.yourfoundation.org.
According to data from state agencies, over 556,000 residents representing 266,000 households received SNAP benefits in September 2025 amounting to about $104 million. There are also more than 900 food banks and pantries operating statewide.
