Springfield, Mo. – As the holiday season approaches, Ozarks Food Harvest is launching its 28th annual Check Out Hunger campaign, teaming up with over 60 local grocery stores to combat hunger across southwest Missouri. From November 1 through December 31, shoppers can contribute a tax‑free donation of $1, $3 or $5 at the checkout lane, directly supporting neighbors who are struggling to put food on the table.
How the program works
When a customer chooses to donate, the cashier scans a special barcode and the amount is added to the grocery bill. A paper “apple” receipt is then signed and displayed at the register as a public pledge of support. Participating stores—including Apple Market, Country Mart, Harter House, King Cash Saver, Price Cutter, Ramey, Rhodes Family Price Chopper, Town & Country Supermarket, and Woods Supermarket—will feature Check Out Hunger signage throughout the checkout lanes.
Impact on the community
Every dollar raised through the campaign translates into $5 worth of groceries for children, seniors and families facing hunger. This year’s goal is to provide 100,000 meals across the Ozarks region. In 2025, the campaign raised nearly $60,000, delivering more than 177,000 meals. Since its inception in 1998, the holiday drive has helped supply 3.8 million meals to individuals and families in the 28‑county service area.
Ozarks Food Harvest currently reaches nearly 90,000 individuals each month and distributes over 23 million meals annually. In southwest Missouri, one in four children and one in five adults experience food insecurity, meaning many do not know where their next meal will come from.
Leadership perspective
“The holiday season is often a difficult time for folks facing hunger, especially as the cost of living remains high,” said Bart Brown, president and CEO of Ozarks Food Harvest. “We’re so thankful for our local grocers and community that support folks facing hunger in southwest Missouri during Check Out Hunger.”
How to get involved
Shoppers who wish to contribute can simply add their chosen amount at checkout at any participating store. For those who cannot donate financially, volunteering at Ozarks Food Harvest distribution sites or spreading the word about the campaign are also valuable ways to help.
More information about the Check Out Hunger campaign, a list of participating retailers, and ways to volunteer can be found at ozarksfoodharvest.org.
Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.
