MFBA Launches Fundraiser with Livestock Cooperative in Honor of National Co-Op Month
United Producers Inc. seeks to help feed those in need
Columbia, Mo. – The Missouri Food Bank Association (MFBA) is joining forces with United Producers Inc. (UPI), to launch a month-long celebration of National Co-Op Month. “Cooperating to Feed Our Community” will help raise funds to support the MFBA and its member food banks spread throughout Missouri.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Missouri has the nation’s fifth highest rate of very low food security. Nearly one in six Missourians struggle with hunger. Last year, the MFBA supplied over 70 million meals to those in need.
“Hunger is a reality for many Missourians,” said Scott Baker, MFBA’s state director. “That’s why it’s so important to be joined in this fight with partners like UPI. Missouri is in the heart of the world’s ‘bread basket.’ So many of the solutions we seek are right here in our own back yard. We are very grateful for what UPI is doing to connect producers with those in need.”
UPI operates four livestock marketing facilities in Missouri and has locations throughout the Midwest. 2012 is the International Year of the Cooperative.
To demonstrate the power of the cooperative, United Producers is asking its members and employees to help make a difference by donating to the MFBA. Members and employees can donate as little or as much as they wish—per head of livestock marketed through UPI or in a lump sum – and all donations will be tax deductible. Forms can be completed upon check-in at any United Producers market, or obtained from any UPI representative.
“As a cooperative organization, we know how important it is to help those in our communities,” said Dennis Bolling, President and CEO of UPI. “Cooperating to Feed Our Community is a great opportunity for our farmer members and employees to give back to our community through making donations to our local food banks. Food prices continue to rise and this is one tangible way our farmer members and employees are working together to help ease that burden for those in Missouri who need it most.”