Farmers unite to fight hunger in Missouri

By Blake Jackson

The Missouri Farmers Care Foundation's Drive to Feed Kids campaign has successfully raised over 700,000 meals for food-insecure families in Missouri.

This year-long initiative brought together farmers, ranchers, agricultural businesses, elected officials, and youth organizations to address the growing issue of hunger in the state.

Missouri agriculture has a long history of giving back to its communities, and the Drive to Feed Kids is a testament to this commitment.

By partnering with Feeding Missouri and other organizations, the campaign has made a significant impact on the lives of those facing food insecurity.

“Farmers and ranchers work 365 days a year to responsibly and sustainably produce food, feed and fuel from our farms and ranches,” said Ashley McCarty, MFCF executive director. “The Drive to Feed Kids addresses the gaps where that abundance doesn’t reach our neighbors’ dinner tables. We are honored to again partner with Missouri agriculture, agribusinesses, elected leaders and Feeding Missouri to make a positive impact in the lives of our neighbors facing hunger.”

The campaign involved various activities throughout the year, including youth fundraising efforts, community food drives, and donations from farmers and ranchers.

Missouri 4-H members raised over 291,000 meals through their Feeding Missouri campaign, while Missouri FFA members packed 193,000 family meals during the Missouri FFA Day of Service.

Feeding Missouri, the association of Missouri's six regional food banks, plays a crucial role in distributing donated meals to families in need.

Heather Hargrove, the executive director of Feeding Missouri, highlighted the increasing demand for food assistance due to rising food prices.

The Missouri Farmers Care Foundation's Drive to Feed Kids is supported by numerous partners, including ADM, Brownfield Ag News, American Family Insurance, MFA Incorporated, NutraBlend, Missouri Corn Merchandising Council, FCS Financial, Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council, and many others.

The campaign concluded with a celebratory event at the Missouri State Fair, where the total number of meals raised was announced.

Drive to Feed Kids has been a successful initiative since its launch in 2017, and it continues to make a significant impact on the lives of Missourians facing hunger.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-fatcamera