10/29/2025
A personal note from a volunteer.
A woman asked us today if there would be food stamps in November. We had to tell her that the word we hear is no. Existing benefits will still be available, but no payments in November.
Check here for updates: https://mydss.mo.gov/federal-shutdown-impacts
We were asked that several times today. We began providing information about other places people can go to receive food.
https://www.harvesters.org/get-food-assistance/food-locator
We also had a woman that needed food herself, but refused to take food because she was sure others needed it more than she does.
I could see the worry... on some the hopelessness. I wanted to be able to assure them this would pass quickly., but I could not. I pray that it does.
November will be a tough month.
If you need food, please come visit us on any Tuesday between 10-noon and then from 1-4pm. If you see a line, please just join the line and be patient with us. We usually operate with about
6 people and most of us are seniors, and understand that for every 100 people, that means we are lifting and moving over 1,500 pounds and we become tired, but we do not give up. Please know that on days that there is a long line all day, it means we will assist with food for up to 200 people, but we are not giving up.
If you are reading this, and you have the ability to lift up to 40-50 pounds, we need you this month. If it's only for a couple of hours, we would gratefully accept the help. If you can give a whole day, we would gratefully accept the help. You will find that while you may leave tired... you will feel a warmth when you see that comes when you know you've made a difference to those in this community.
I have been in awe this year over the amount of care I have witnessed from people in this community as they have answered the call for assistance we put out. I know all of us are feeling the pinch of rising prices. However, yet again, I am asking for donations. If you wish to donate money, we are able to stretch a dollar further with the help of Ozarks Food Harvest, and the retailers that allow us to purchase at wholesale. However, we also need food that we can distribute quickly. Holiday side dishes... gravy, (packets or jars), instant mashed potatoes, stuffing, etc. we gladly accept to provide our clients with food for the holidays. We also need staples like rice, pasta, peanut butter.
If I were to be granted a wish... it would be that the spirit of the season ahead arrive a bit early, and that those that are currently struggling know that they are not alone and that we will do all we can to help.
Search for food help by location including food pantries, drive-thru food pickup and eat-in kitchens in the Kansas City and Topeka regions.
