Missouri Farmers Care has taken a big step to fight food insecurity by giving 52 grants to 4-H clubs, FFA chapters, and college agriculture groups for 2026. This project, called “Drive to Feed Kids,” aims to help children and families who struggle to put food on the table.
Among the recipients are the Knox County FFA and Linn County 4-H Council. They’ll use the funding for food drives and to partner with local food banks and farmers.
Ashley McCarty, the executive director of Missouri Farmers Care, pointed out a harsh reality: “One in six people faces food insecurity. For children, it’s even worse, with one in three affected.” She stressed the need for awareness and action in the community.
“When kids start to understand the challenges around them, they can take action,” McCarty said. “Our goal is for agriculture to make a real difference in our local areas. It’s encouraging to think that we can all contribute, no matter how small the effort.”
Since it began in 2017, the “Drive to Feed Kids” initiative has provided more than a million meals throughout Missouri. This achievement highlights the growing concern about food insecurity, where many families struggle not just to afford food but also to access it.
According to a recent study from Feeding America, food insecurity affects nearly 38 million people in the U.S. This shows the pressing importance of programs like “Drive to Feed Kids.” Small actions can lead to big changes, shifting not only how children view food insecurity but also how communities come together to address it.
With projects like this one, there’s a brighter future in sight, where every child can have access to nutritious meals.
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