Media

SPRINGFIELD, Mo.— Ozarks Harvesting Hope, a part of the national Plant a Row for the Hungry campaign, has formed in Southwest Missouri. It is a volunteer-led, people-helping-people program based on the generosity of gardeners who care enough to plant a little extra in their gardens to be donated to those in need.

Unfortunately, while most of us feast on fresh, healthy produce, there are people all around Southwest Missouri who can’t enjoy these items. It’s not because they don’t like them, they simply can’t afford them. The need for fresh produce is great. Good choices for donation include firm, clean fruits and vegetables. Vegetables such as peas, beans, corn, tomatoes, potatoes, winter and summer squash, cucumbers, cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, onions, zucchini, rhubarb, eggplant, sweet peppers and garlic. Fruit choices include blueberries, strawberries, apples, peaches and melons.

In the greater Springfield area, produce donations can be dropped off at Ozarks Food Harvest, 615 N. Glenstone.* In other communities, please consult your local yellow pages or visit www.ozarksfoodharvest.org to locate a food pantry in your area.

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To learn more, contact Lindsey Neddenriep at (417) 865-3411.

*Update: Ozarks Food Harvest is now located at 2810 N. Cedarbrook Ave.