Missouri FFA members have the opportunity to provide high-quality protein to families in need and help combat food insecurity across their state through the Hogs for Hunger program.
Facilitated by Missouri Farmers Care and its participating sponsors, Hogs for Hunger launched in 2020 as a component of the Missouri Farmers Care Foundation’s Drive to Feed Kids initiative. The program connects Missouri pig farmers, 4-H and FFA exhibitors and meat processors with six regional food banks in the state that are associated with the Feeding Missouri organization, creating a simple pathway for those interested in donating.
“One pig feeds 525 people, so this is an incredible way to make a big impact,” says Morgan Watkins, an outreach specialist intern with Missouri Farmers Care. Watkins also served as the 2022-23 Missouri State FFA vice president and was named the 2023 Outstanding Freshman by the University of Missouri College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources.
Committing to the Cause
To participate in Hogs for Hunger, Missouri FFA members pledge to donate their animal at the Missouri State Fair. Up to 50 pigs are accepted each year. Another option is to donate their animal locally by booking a processing spot at a USDA- or state-inspected locker, then delivering the pork to one of the Feeding Missouri food pantries.
“Along with knowing they’re feeding hundreds of people, there’s another bonus for those who donate,” Watkins says. “Feeding Missouri provides Missouri State Fair swine exhibitors and donors with an $0.80-per-pound live weight stipend on market hogs. For those who donate locally, the Missouri Farmers Care Foundation will reimburse $1.25 per pound for processing costs up to $125 per donation.”
Contributing to the 2023 record-breaking year of donations, Republic FFA member Eliese Chaney participated in Hogs for Hunger after learning about the program and realizing she could help make a positive difference in the lives of her fellow Missourians.
“I love knowing my donation will help feed someone who might otherwise go hungry,” says Chaney, a junior at Republic High School in Republic, Mo. “I’m definitely interested in participating again next year, and I’d encourage anyone else who raises pigs to do the same.”
A Lasting Impact
In addition to donating a pig, Missouri FFA members can support Hogs for Hunger by attending the annual Missouri FFA Day of Service at the Missouri State Fair. During this summer’s event, hundreds of Missouri FFA Association members and agricultural leaders came together to pack 160,000 family meals.
“It’s estimated one in seven Missouri children are food-insecure, so anything we can do to change that is essential,” Watkins says. “Through Hogs for Hunger, we truly can help people in our state live better and get the nutrition they need to thrive.”
