Missouri Drive to Feed Kids Provides Over 825,000 Meals

By Blake Jackson

Missouri agriculture leaders, youth organizations, and community partners celebrated another successful Missouri Farmers Care Foundation Drive to Feed Kids during the 2026 Missouri State Fair, providing the equivalent of 825,196 meals to children and families facing food insecurity across the state. Since its launch in 2017, the program has delivered more than 14.5 million meals to Missourians in need.

“The Drive to Feed Kids highlights what Missouri agriculture can accomplish when we work together,” said Ashley McCarty, Executive Director of Missouri Farmers Care.

“From farmers and ranchers to FFA and 4-H members, volunteers, businesses and community partners, thousands of people have united to help provide meals for Missouri children and families. We are proud to celebrate agriculture’s incredible impact and grateful to everyone who helped make it possible.”

Missouri youth played a major role in this year’s effort. More than 850 Missouri FFA members packed 252,564 meals during the Missouri FFA Day of Service at the fair and donated fresh produce from agricultural education projects.

Meanwhile, Missouri 4-H members helped provide more than 250,000 meals through the 4-H Feeding Missouri initiative. Additional support came from local FFA chapters, 4-H clubs, collegiate groups, and fairgoers who donated food and funds during special events.

Protein donations also remained an important part of the campaign. Through the Hogs for Hunger program, swine producers and exhibitors contributed enough pork to provide approximately 36,125 servings for Missouri families.

“Drive to Feed Kids reflects some of Missouri’s best values: hard work, generosity, and a commitment to helping our neighbors,” said Leigh Anne Haun, executive director of Feeding Missouri.

“Through our partnership with Missouri Farmers Care, this packing event provides nutritious meals to families experiencing food insecurity while demonstrating the positive impact Missouri agriculture can have on communities across the state. We’re grateful to the partners who make this program possible.”

The annual initiative continues to demonstrate the power of Missouri agriculture, youth leadership, and community partnerships in helping address hunger throughout the state.

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