Ozarks Food Harvest was excited to celebrate with Central Bank of the Ozarks in December as they reached their 1,000th hour of volunteerism at The Food Bank. At a well-deserved celebration of their achievement last month, Ozarks Food Harvest staff presented Central Bank with their own 1,000-hour apple plaque to be displayed on The Food Bank’s Gift of Time Tree.
In the small, close-knit community of Eminence, Mo., a food pantry located in the heart of town has a lot of heart for its residents. “Our pantry thrives on bringing joy, compassion and helping others in all aspects of their lives,” says Patty Raye Jones, director of Eminence Food Pantry, which has served as a focal point of aid and support for their neighbors for nearly eight years.
As you gather with loved ones this holiday season to share meals and create memories, consider making an investment in food for others with Ozarks Food Harvest. This act of generosity can make a profound difference in the lives of families facing hunger in the upcoming year. Your gifts will make meals and warm memories possible for our neighbors who need them most.
The Food Bank is bustling with activity to make sure thousands of neighbors can put a holiday meal on the table. This is happening in the midst of an increased demand for food assistance that’s higher than the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this season of giving, year-end gifts will allow The Food Bank to continue giving hope to our neighbors facing hunger.
For the 12th consecutive year, Ozarks Food Harvest has achieved the highest rating of 4 out of 4 possible stars from Charity Navigator, the world’s largest and most trusted nonprofit evaluator. Our recognition is especially meaningful this year because it means I can assure you that during this time of increased childcare, housing and food costs, you’re contributing to one of the most effective hunger-relief charities in the nation.
The need for food assistance is rising, and with increased demand comes increased pressure on the hunger-relief network. Right now, a perfect storm of high food, housing and childcare costs mean more of our neighbors need help to get back on their feet, but keeping up with demand requires creative solutions and change. For Crosslines food pantry in Springfield, their major change is making a big impact on the community.