News

Eminence Food Pantry: Serving Neighbors with Full Hearts

Eminence Food Pantry: Serving Neighbors with Full Hearts

December 29, 2023 in Agency Spotlight

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.

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Consider a Year-End Gift

Consider a Year-End Gift

December 4, 2023 in Harvest Time Newsletter

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.

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12 Years, 4 Stars – Excellence in Hunger Relief

12 Years, 4 Stars – Excellence in Hunger Relief

December 4, 2023 in Bart's Hope Notes Harvest Time Newsletter

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.

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An Investment in Growth and Hope

An Investment in Growth and Hope

December 4, 2023 in Harvest Time Newsletter

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.

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Genesis and Ozarks Food Harvest Join Forces Against Hunger and Domestic Abuse

Genesis and Ozarks Food Harvest Join Forces Against Hunger and Domestic Abuse

November 30, 2023 in Agency Spotlight

Like hunger, domestic abuse can affect anyone. Take it from Juliana Billington, program manager at Genesis: A Place of New Beginnings, who shares, “Domestic violence and trafficking have no prejudice. There’s not just one category our clients fall in because abuse affects all kinds of people.” No matter the story, Genesis offers free and confidential services to survivors of domestic, sexual and trafficking violence and their children. A partnership with Ozarks Food Harvest ensures survivors have the food and support they need for a fresh start.

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Lauren Pyle: Serving with a Smile

Lauren Pyle: Serving with a Smile

November 13, 2023 in Volunteer Spotlight

If you meet Lauren Pyle, you might remember her smile. That’s because Lauren likes to have a smile on her face wherever she goes in the hopes she might put one on someone else’s face, too. Lauren has had a compassionate heart for a long time, and for nearly two years, she’s brought hope to our neighbors facing hunger by volunteering at Ozarks Food Harvest.

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John Deere Reman Advances Humanity Through Hunger Relief

John Deere Reman Advances Humanity Through Hunger Relief

October 24, 2023 in Volunteer Spotlight

John Deere is a company focused on advancing humanity, and Dave Ahlstrand, manager of financial analysis at John Deere Reman, says the best way to do that is to first address basic necessities. “Making sure people have access to food – What’s a higher purpose than that?” he says. “When people can’t eat or feed children, they won’t have the energy to accomplish anything else.”

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