One for One Holiday Food and Fund Drive returns; The Food Bank still in need of volunteers year-round

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Food Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri is set to host its 18th annual One for One Holiday Food and Fund Drive on Tuesday. But the 12-hour event is not the only time The Food Bank needs volunteers.

Nearly 12,000 volunteers dedicated over 71,000 hours to serving at The Food Bank in 2023. That allowed The Food Bank to reinvest $2.3 million back into its mission.

The Food Bank often sees volunteer numbers dip in January, but it still needs help just as urgently after the holidays due to food insecurity rates.

There are various volunteer opportunities available. Volunteers can repackage food at The Food Bank, help out at Mobile Markets and events or serve neighbors directly at The Food Bank Market.

One in seven Missourians were food insecure in 2022, according to The Food Bank. It said that number is even higher now.

The 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. One for One Drive will serve Mid-Missouri at two locations - the Columbia Mall and Buchheits in Jefferson City. Items gathered in the drive will provide food to families in need during the holiday season and beyond.

Funds raised will also help The Food Bank continue to serve 100,000 people monthly across a 32-county service area. The Food Bank's purchasing power turns every $25 donated into at least 100 meals.

Local firefighters from Columbia Professional Firefighters IAFF Local 1055 and Jefferson City Firefighters Local 671 will volunteer during the One for One drive.

People interested in volunteering or donating can visit sharefoodbringhope.org for more information or to sign up.