Food can symbolize connection, celebration, and unity, but food is not created equal.

Access to fresh and nutritional food is an issue faced across generations and throughout the world. In Missouri, both urban and rural communities struggle with food insecurity, finding themselves in so-called “food deserts,” or areas of low income with low access to fresh food resources such as a full-service grocery store.

Missouri Humanities has embarked on a mission to seek out answers to two questions: What does food insecurity look like in Missouri, and what’s being done to address it?

A virtual film premiere and panel discussion — “Won’t You Feed My Neighbor?” — will highlight several organizations and individuals throughout the state dedicated to improving food access and providing resources in their communities, regions, and beyond. Their creative strategies, commitment to educating others, and passion for helping their neighbors reinforces hope for a more secure, sustainable food system here in Missouri.

The panel will take questions following the film when it is screened Thursday, July 28th at 7:00 p.m. The panel brings together some of the men and women who were involved in the production of the film and who continue to work tirelessly to improve food access across Missouri.