2025 Drive to Feed Kids Raises Over 720,000 Meals

Members of the Monett FFA joined more than 650 FFA members and agricultural leaders on Aug. 12 for the Missouri State FFA Day of Service, a component of the Missouri Farmers Care Foundation (MFCF) Drive to Feed Kids (the Drive). 

Gathering at the Missouri State Fair, FFA members packed 177,792 meals to feed food insecure Missouri families, part of a year-long effort to stand in the gap for the one in five Missouri children facing food insecurity.

During the ninth annual Day of Service, FFA members packed family-sized meals to help neighbors in need. The generous support of ADM, Brownfield Ag News and partners across Missouri agriculture expand and amplify resources used to help fight hunger in Missouri.

“The Missouri FFA Day of Service embodies the values and morals of the Missouri FFA Association,” said Ryatt Haggerman, 2025-26 Missouri FFA secretary. “It gives us the chance to showcase the dedication we have as an association to serving the world around us and unites members across the state. This day is proof that if we continue in our mission of living to serve, we can make a difference in our local communities.” 

In addition to the meal packing event, non-perishable and monetary donations equaled another 49,000 meals donated by fairgoers. 

Through the Drive’s Hogs for Hunger initiative, 4-H and FFA members committed 53 pigs, which will provide over 27,500 servings of high-protein pork to regional food banks. 

“Missouri agriculture is about more than crops and livestock — it’s about people,” said Gov. Mike Kehoe. “The Missouri Farmers Care Foundation Drive to Feed Kids opens the door for Missourians to make a difference in the fight against hunger, and Missouri FFA and Missouri 4-H members are leading the way. Every meal packed and every food item donated is proof that the next generation isn’t waiting to make a difference, they’re making it happen today. Claudia and I are proud to join these leaders to make an impact and work toward a stronger, healthier Missouri.” 

“Seeing Missouri FFA members pour their energy and compassion into the Day of Service reminds us that the future is in good hands,” said Ashley McCarty, executive director, MFCF. “On one of their final summer days, hundreds of students came together with purpose, proving that when we act collectively, small efforts add up to a tremendous impact. This effort is possible thanks to the commitment of partners across agriculture who stand shoulder to shoulder with these students.” 

The Drive culminated aug. 16, with an announcement of the 720,000 meals Missouri agriculture provided to Feeding Missouri food banks through the Missouri Farmers Care Drive to Feed Kids. The meals were distributed through Feeding Missouri to the state’s six regional food banks and over 1,500 food pantries.