The Missouri Retired Teachers Association (MRTA) Region 4 Food for Thought Virtual Food Drive was conducted during March 2022.

Efforts were focused on alleviating childhood hunger in Audrain, Boone, Callaway, Montgomery and Randolph Counties. The proceeds went toward Buddy Packs and School Pantries run by The Food Bank and the Montgomery County R-II schools. A special thanks to our MRTA Region 4 partners, members, and communities.

Audrain County Area Public School Retirees voted to work with the Laura Miller George Help Center to establish a school pantry at Mexico Middle School. Members transport items from the Laura Miller George Help Center to Mexico Middle School. They also donate supplies suggested by the school counselors. The Help Center is a partner agency of The Food Bank. The Van-Far Schools also receive assistance from The Help Center.

Boone County Retired Teachers Association & School Personnel, Callaway Retired School Personnel, Montgomery County Area Retired School Personnel, and Randolph County Retired School Personnel asked their members and the public to donate on-line, by check, or cash. Their collective efforts raised a total of $5,574.66 for Buddy Packs, Nutritional Resource Goodie Packs, and School Pantries.

MRTA represents over 30,000 retired educators and support staff. MRTA county units, including those in Region 4, have a long history of supporting children, families and schools through community service and hunger relief efforts. In 2021, Region 4 units donated more than $69,533 to hunger relief projects. Since 2011, MRTA units have donated $953,228 toward hunger relief.

The Food for Thought Drive reflects the ongoing commitment of our retired educators and school personnel to help students and their families. Making food security a reality can help provide all students with the opportunity to succeed.

A special thanks to everyone for supporting the Food for Thought Drive.