American Heart Association expands access to fresh, healthy food in the Upstate

GREENVILLE, S.C., Sept. 19, 2025 — Nearly 50 percent of people in the Upstate have low access to healthy food[1], driven by factors like transportation, income, ethnicity and race.

The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, is working with local businesses, foundations and organizations to increase nutrition security through expanded access to fresh, healthy food.

As part of this effort, the Jean T. and Heyward G. Pelham Foundation recently provided critical funding to secure additional cold storage for Changing Your Mind Ministries, a community food pantry serving Greenville County.

“This will significantly improve our ability to serve families with limited resources consistent access to healthier, well-balanced options,” said La’Shawn Leitzsey of Changing Your Mind Ministries. “With this additional cold storage, we will be able to add another monthly distribution day and meet just-in-time needs upon request.”

The expanded storage capacity will allow the pantry to safely store more fresh produce, lean proteins, dairy and other nutrient-rich items often missing from the diets of families facing food insecurity.

“We are thrilled to be able to help increase access to fresh, healthy food for those served right here in our community,” said Megan Ramsey, executive director of the American Heart Association, Upstate. “This effort supports our mission to improve nutrition security and empower more of our neighbors to live longer, healthier lives.”

The investment reflects a broader, community-driven approach to addressing food insecurity, bringing together nonprofits, faith-based groups, and philanthropy to create lasting impact for families in need.

“Everyone deserves access to nutritious food, and this investment is one way we can help remove barriers for families in our community,” said Bill Pelham of the Jean T. and Heyward G. Pelham Foundation. “We’re proud to support a solution that brings partners together to meet immediate needs and build a brighter, healthier future for our community.”

This collaboration is part of the American Heart Association’s ongoing commitment to addressing the social drivers of health—ensuring that all people, no matter where they live, have the opportunity to make healthy choices.

The American Heart Association is the world’s leading nonprofit organization that focuses on heart and brain health. For more information about nutrition security, visit heart.org/eatsmart.

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, on Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

For Media Inquiries:

Hunter Burton: hunter.burton@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org