One simple fact has shaped our work at Heritage Digital: when students can't eat, they can't learn. And when students can't learn, our entire region loses the skilled workforce it needs to grow.
That's why Feed Hope matters so much.
The Reality Our Students Face
Federal data confirms what we see every day: 1 in 4 college students experience food insecurity. At Florence-Darlington Technical College, where students attend classes across six campuses in three counties with zero cafeterias, many face a daily choice—textbooks or food, personal care items or their next meal.
Last year, our community responded. We grew from 20+ partners to 44+ across North and South Carolina. Care packages were claimed by 11 AM every school day. We expanded to reach all six FDTC campuses.
In 2026, We're Partnering With This Community Once More
Securing Our World means more than cybersecurity and IT solutions. It means ensuring that talented students have the foundation they need to succeed. It means recognizing that when barriers to education exist, they don't just affect students-they impact the future of our entire region.
As Paula McLaughlin from FDTC puts it simply:
"When you can't eat, you can't learn."
When FDTC students can focus on their studies instead of worrying about their next meal, everything changes. They complete their programs, enter the workforce prepared, and contribute to the strength of our local economy. They don't just succeed individually-they help move our entire region forward.
That's why we're asking you to join us in 2026. Not because it's trendy or because it looks good-because it works. Our community is stronger when we show up for each other.
The Bottom Line
The need hasn't gone away — and our community's commitment to solving it has only grown. We've learned that when we make participation simple and meaningful, this community responds.
Whether you host a collection box, place a Walmart order, make a monthly donation, or find a creative way to contribute — your support removes barriers that stand between students and their futures.
You'll receive recognition for your generosity, including video recognition opportunities, public acknowledgment at our September celebration, and the knowledge that you're directly investing in workforce development for our region.
Ready to Participate?
Join 44+ organizations united around student success. Join Feed Hope 2026
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About the Author
Marty Parker
Owner & CEO
Marty is the Owner & CEO of Heritage Digital. With over 30 years of experience in building and leading top-notch IT teams, Marty has a rich background in both the manufacturing and healthcare sectors. He spent 13 years in each industry before taking the helm at Heritage Digital. Before leading Heritage Digital, he served as the CIO of Carolinas Hospital System (now MUSC Health Florence Medical Center). Marty is dedicated to educating and safeguarding people from cyber threats.
