In November and December, donors contributed financial gifts, local businesses hosted food and fund drives and new faces stepped into our volunteer center. There was an incredible outpouring of kindness and philanthropy during the holiday season throughout the Ozarks.
In 1965, community members banded together to create the Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation (OACAC). The organization was designed to alleviate poverty in southwest Missouri. OACAC currently serves 10 counties.
On the second Saturday of every month, 74-year-old Marie rises before the sun and makes her way to St. Joseph’s food pantry in Billings. Distribution days are her favorite—but not because she knows she’ll receive a box of food at the end of the morning.