Missouri Farmers Care Foundation's Drive to Feed Kids initiative gains powerful support from Forrest and Charlotte Lucas, the founders of "Protect The Harvest."Their collaboration seeks to combat childhood food insecurity and increase awareness about Missouri's agriculture.
Feeding America's data reveals that one in seven Missouri children face food insecurity, and over 715,000 Missourians experienced food insecurity in recent records.
The Drive to Feed Kids, now in its seventh year, has already raised resources for over 11 million meals since its inception in 2017. Its efforts began with the 4-H Feeding Missouri initiative, where Missouri 4-H members raised over 711,000 meals through community events.
Recognizing the demand for protein in food banks, the Hogs for Hunger initiative was launched in partnership with swine exhibitors and producers. Up to 50 pigs committed to feed those in need will be accepted at the Missouri State Fair, with Feeding Missouri providing reimbursement of $0.80 per pound and the Missouri Farmers Care Foundation covering processing costs.
Drive to Feed Kids activities continue throughout the summer, with FFA members and agriculture leaders packing meals on "Food Drive $2 Tuesday" and assembling meal boxes for distribution to families in need.
All donations through Drive to Feed Kids are distributed via Feeding Missouri, the association of Missouri's six regional food banks.
Since its establishment in 2017, Drive to Feed Kids has united non-profit organizations, farmers, and agricultural businesses to tackle food insecurity in Missouri.
Forrest and Charlotte Lucas' support adds significant momentum to the mission, ensuring that Missouri's children have access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food, laying the foundation for a healthier future.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zbynek-pospisil
Categories: Missouri, Harvesting, Livestock, Hogs