The Gathering - August Resources

Last week at The Gathering, we had an incredibly engaging discussion about food insecurity with participants from KCU, MSSU, One Joplin, and other great community members. The passion and commitment to addressing this pressing issue within our community were truly inspiring.

Given the impact of our conversation, we have decided to continue exploring the topic of food insecurity in our upcoming September meeting. We believe that by delving deeper, we can develop more comprehensive strategies and take meaningful action to make a real difference.

As always, I have included some of the valuable resources that were shared during our last discussion. These materials provide further insights and can help us all stay informed and prepared for our next meeting.

📚 Literacy & Education

• Read to a Dog – Joplin Humane Society: A fun and effective way to support early literacy..

• NALA (National Adult Literacy Agency): Literacy-focused programming, upcoming event Literacy Lift Off with Hot air balloon rides.

• Book Spotlight – Save Us by Kathrine Hayhoe: A compelling read on climate and community action.

🌱 Food Security & Gardening

• Food Not Bombs, SWMO Food Sumit, Food Rescue (Emily Larson), and Plant an Extra Row: Grassroots efforts to reduce food waste and support those in need.

• Ozark Gateway Master Gardners– Crosslines Community Garden & Next Generation: Local gardening initiatives promoting sustainability.

• Grow Your Own Farm, Ask a Gardener, and Old Farmer's Almanac : Tools and programs to help individuals start growing their own food.

• Springfield Community Garden + COX Hospital: A partnership offering “nutritional scripts” to connect health care with food access.

• SNAP Ed, USDA Grants & GUSNip Funding: Federal support for nutrition education and produce prescriptions.

🏛️ Policy & Advocacy

• Support the Farm Bill (101): A primer on how to get involved.

• Reconciliation Bill: Concerns about defunding and increased barriers.

🗳️ Civic Engagement & Community Health

• Voices & Votes at Crowder & George Washington Carver Storytellers (Aug 23, 11–1pm): Events promoting civic dialogue and storytelling.

• Community Health Needs Assessment for Joplin: A chance to compare Missouri’s CHA with neighboring states.

• Missouri Food Atlas: A data-driven look at food insecurity across the state.

• Mutual Aid Resources: Community-driven support systems worth exploring.

🛒 Innovative Distribution Models

• Church in Baxter Springs: Creative produce distribution via convenience stores.

• ICT Farms (Wichita), KC Food Hub (Thomas Smith), and Springfield Community Garden: Regional models that could inspire similar efforts in Joplin.

 Let’s keep building momentum toward a more informed, nourished, and connected community. If you would like to read the book by Zepher Teachout – “Break 'em up Recovering Our Freedom from Big Ag”: A powerful talk on food system reform" was recommended for a starting point of our next meeting. As always, you do not have to read the book to contribute to the conversation! This is a gathering of like minded people sharing resources and ideas

📅 Call to Action: Join us for our next Gathering to continue this discussion!

Joplin Public Library meeting room 1

September 2^nd at 6pm

Looking forward to seeing you all in September and continuing our important discussion.