By Blake Jackson
Missouri joined forces to fight childhood hunger in a heartwarming event on April 23rd. Agricultural leaders, legislators, and volunteers packed 7,500 meals for food-insecure children at the State Capitol. This initiative is part of the year-long Missouri Farmers Care Foundation Drive to Feed Kids program, partnered with Brownfield Ag News and ADM.
The event aimed to raise awareness about a critical issue: one in seven Missouri children experiences food insecurity. Hunger affects all areas of the state, not just rural communities. Studies show food insecurity in children can lead to poor academic performance, developmental delays, and chronic health problems.
"Drive to Feed Kids bridges the gap between Missouri's abundant food production and the lack of access some families face," said Ashley McCarty, Executive Director of Missouri Farmers Care. "Our goal is to ensure every Missouri child has the opportunity to reach their full potential."
Lt. Governor Mike Kehoe, members of the Missouri House of Representatives, and Claudia Kehoe participated in the packing event alongside volunteers.
"We were honored to be part of this Drive to Feed Kids effort," Lt. Governor Kehoe said. "These meal packing events make a real difference in the fight against hunger, especially in areas where one-third of children experience food insecurity."
Launched in 2017, the Drive to Feed Kids program fosters collaboration between non-profits, farmers, and agricultural businesses. It aims to raise awareness about hunger and highlight the responsible food production practices used by Missouri's agricultural community.
"The Drive to Feed Kids showcases the immense compassion within Missouri agriculture," said McCarty. "Missouri's farmers are dedicated to caring for their land and communities. This program is an extension of that stewardship."
Over the past eight years, Missouri's agricultural sector has donated over 12.3 million meals to food-insecure Missourians through the Drive to Feed Kids program, reaching every county in the state.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-fatcamera
Categories: Missouri, Business