Sumter Co. food stand tackling food insecurity

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) – The act of giving comes in many forms. In the Sumter County community, a unique food stand is giving back.

It’s called the Cluck Hut, mainly because of Bowen’s love for her chickens—the same chickens that lay fresh eggs she gives away through her stand.

She also bakes homemade bread, jellies, and pies, and gives away fresh produce from her garden.

“It’s a take what you need, pay what you can, and leave the rest for somebody else, but if you can’t pay, take what you can. Take what you need,” she said. “We’re just very blessed, and what better way to share it? It’s not about the money. It’s about the feeling you get from helping someone.”

Vicki Singleton, CEO of the United Way of Sumter, said the small initiative is tackling a bigger need of food insecurity across the community.

“The need is so prevalent here that you almost can’t meet the need,” she said.

In 2023, 14,000 people were counted as food insecure in Sumter County.

And just last month, Singleton says food assistance requests were the top four calls United Way received.

“When they hear of places like this (The Cluck Hut) that they can go to and no one’s judging. Not only does it take that stigma away, but it also keeps them from having to choose ‘Am I going to pay my light bill. Am I going to pay my rent?’” Singleton said.

Dotti Taylor visited the Cluck Hut and said she knows it’s serving those who are truly in need.

“This is awesome, especially for people who don’t have financial needs to get something like this,” she said.

Bowen is planning to make The Cluck Hut a year-round community initiative.

Right now, she opens the stand on Wednesdays and on the weekends at 8 a.m. Until supplies last.

The Cluck Hut is located in the Hidden Bay Subdivision on Katydid Street in Sumter County.

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