Missouri 4-H Food Drive Brings In 700k Meals

4-H Clubs across Missouri brought in enough food to provide over 711,000 meals to Missourians in need during their recently concluded Feeding Missouri Initiative.  In its fifth year, the drive challenged the state’s 55,000 4-H members to fight hunger through canned goods collections and fundraisers, as well as volunteer efforts, education, and outreach activities.  University of Missouri Extension also hosted a friendly challenge among competing clubs to raise the greatest contributions.  Clubs in Moniteau County won top honors by raising close to 51,500 meals during the spring.  During the campaign’s five years, 4-H clubs have raised a total of 1.7 million meals for distribution by Missouri’s six regional food banks.

Several 4-H clubs received matching grants from Missouri Farmers Care Foundation to support their efforts.  The grants awarded to 17 clubs encouraged them to promote their efforts in schools and other local organizations.  Missouri Farmers Care will encourage 4-H members to continue supporting efforts to combat food insecurity this summer through their Hogs for Hunger Initiative.  Up to 50 pigs will be accepted at this summer’s Missouri State Fair, with Feeding Missouri providing reimbursement of up to $0.80 per pound live weight.  Interested exhibitors can make their commitment at https://MOFarmersCare.com/drive.