OACAC Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation

05/29/2026

It's our last and we've got a trivia question for you with several possible answers!

How many counties in Southwest Missouri does OACAC serve?

05/29/2026

This week, we celebrated the accomplishments of our 2025–2026 Patient Empowerment Project (PEP) cohort alongside participants, OACAC staff, and board members.

Over this year-long program, participants built skills in advocacy, leadership, and civic engagement while supporting their communities through outreach, legislative advocacy, and efforts to increase access to resources for families across Southwest Missouri.

Participants traveled to the Missouri Capitol, met with legislators, shared their lived experiences, and advocated for policy changes impacting Missouri families. One major success was supporting HB 2596, the Annual Supply bill, which has passed and is headed to the Governor’s desk. This legislation expands access to a full year’s supply of contraception.

This achievement shows the power of collective advocacy and community voices coming together to create change.

We are incredibly proud of this cohort’s determination, compassion, and leadership. Congratulations to our PEP graduates, and thank you for allowing OACAC to be part of your journey. This is people power in action.

If you or someone you know is interested in joining our next PEP cohort beginning in June, give us a call! Details at https://oac.ac/pep/.

05/29/2026

Our friends at Beacon Reproductive Health Network reminded us that Thursday was Menstrual Hygiene Day, and we know that for many people, periods play a major role in contraceptive decisions– from managing symptoms to accessing products they can afford.

When Title X and TRT health centers (like OACAC Family Planning) provide a wide range of birth control options, patients have the freedom to access birth control that works for them and their period.

In our last week of , we're doing a drive for period products, which are provided free to our community. Your donation helps us move the needle on period poverty - thank you! If you'd like to contribute, drop by our Central Office with a donation of pads or tampons, or visit our Amazon Wish list and order to be shipped directly to our clinic.

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/N8WJZHRE60UK?

[ID: Graphic which talks about Community Action Month and the four drives OACAC is doing to collect unscented wipes for Head Start, shelf-stable food for People's Pantries, children's books and activity sets for our OACAC Foster Grandparent Program, and period products for OACAC Family Planning.]

05/28/2026

Webster County is still looking to hire six individuals for storm recovery and debris removal throughout the county. Heavy equipment operators, Class B dump truck drivers and general laborers are needed. On-the-job training is provided. To apply, contact Melissa at 417-841-3386 or [email protected].

05/28/2026

Thank you to all who have donated to our month drives! We've collected unscented wipes for Head Start classrooms, food for our People's Pantries, children's books and activity sets for our OACAC Foster Grandparent Program, and this week we're collecting period products for OACAC Family Planning.

Every donation helps provide essential care items to individuals and families who may otherwise go without. Together, we can make a meaningful impact, one item at a time.

Donations can be dropped off at our Central Office or any OACAC Outreach Center. Prefer to shop online? Items can also be purchased through our Amazon Wishlist and shipped directly to us. Every gift makes a difference. https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/N8WJZHRE60UK?

05/27/2026

Because the Assistance Program (WAP) ensures low-income homes have reasonable energy use, more utility customers are able to keep up with their bills.

05/26/2026

This sounds like a fun time!

More summer fun is on the way!

The Aurora Park Board is hosting a Summer Hydrant Party!

This is a free event for the whole family! Come on down to City Hall, Friday, June 5th at 6PM to enjoy some fun with the whole community!

05/26/2026

Our CSBG Monett satellite office will be closed this week. Information and applications can be found on our website.

OACAC offers innovative programs & services to lead the fight against poverty in the Ozarks. Contact us to apply for assistance, volunteer, or donate.