Western farm show tackles hunger with FFA

By Blake Jackson

The Western Farm Show and Missouri Farmers Care join forces to combat food insecurity! This year's "Unite Against Hunger" campaign partners with the Missouri Farmers Care Drive to Feed Kids, offering attendees and FFA chapters a chance to donate and make a difference.

From February 23rd to 25th, the 62nd Annual Western Farm Show at the American Royal in Kansas City beckons. FFA members can participate in the annual food drive during National FFA Week, supporting local communities through Harvesters Community Food Network. Chapters donating 200+ canned/nonperishable items enter a drawing for a $1,000 educational grant.

But the fight against hunger doesn't stop there! The Western Farm Show also offers leadership development and career preparation for Kansas and Missouri students through FFA Day, sponsored by CASE IH. Students can attend leadership sessions and gain insights from agricultural professionals.

"The Missouri Farmers Care Drive to Feed Kids empowers youth to make a positive impact," says Ashley McCarty, Executive Director of Missouri Farmers Care Foundation. "We're excited to partner with the Western Farm Show and Missouri FFA to raise awareness and help families facing hunger."

This partnership builds on the Drive's success in 2023, raising 1.2 million meals through packing events, youth projects, and food drives. Since 2017, over twelve million meals have been provided through the Drive's collaborative efforts.

The fight continues throughout the summer with Missouri Farmers Care Food Drive Tuesday and Missouri FFA Food Insecurity Service Day at the Missouri State Fair in August. Hundreds of FFA members will pack meals, while fairgoers are encouraged to donate.

Join the Western Farm Show and Missouri Farmers Care in uniting against hunger! Make a difference in the lives of families in need and witness the power of collaboration.

Missouri Farmers Care Foundation invites companies and individuals to join in the Drive to Feed Kids; details and a giving link can be found at www.mofarmerscare.com/drive.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-fatcamera