Missouri rice producers donate 12,300 pounds of rice to SEMO Food Bank

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

SIKESTON, Mo., (KBSI) — Four Missouri rice producers donated 12,300 pounds of rice to Southeast Missouri Food Bank, providing the equivalent of more than 10,000 meals for families across the region, according to the organization.

Heritage Farms, Inland Rice, Martin Farms and Riceland contributed to the donation, which was presented Tuesday during the food bank’s Harvesting Hope event. The event also marked the beginning of Hunger Action Month.

Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe and state Agriculture Director Chris Chinn delivered remarks during the event. Representatives from agricultural groups, hunger-relief organizations and local communities also attended.

“Our rice farmers are growing food that feeds people, and through their generosity, that food is now going to help families right here in Southeast Missouri,” food bank President and CEO Joey Keys said.

More than 69,000 people in Southeast Missouri experienced food insecurity in 2024, according to Feeding America’s latest Map the Meal Gap report. That represents approximately 1 in 5 residents. The total includes more than 20,000 children, or about 1 in 4 children in the region.

Throughout September, the food bank is encouraging residents and organizations to donate, volunteer, support local food drives and raise awareness about hunger. Every $1 donated helps the organization provide food for four meals, according to the food bank.

Residents are also encouraged to wear orange Sept. 29 for Hunger Action Day.

Southeast Missouri Food Bank works with 140 partner agencies and direct-service programs across 16 counties. It also provides monthly food boxes to 5,600 seniors and weekend food backpacks to 1,100 students during the school year.

More information is available at semofoodbank.org.