Feeding Our Neighbors
- Announcements
- Nov 1
- 1 min read
As rising food costs and recent reductions in SNAP benefits continue to impact families across Missouri, the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri is stepping forward with a new resource to help churches respond with compassion and action.
The Feeding Our Neighbors Toolkit equips congregations with the practical tools they need to serve neighbors experiencing food insecurity. Developed by the Office of Communications, the toolkit blends pastoral encouragement with hands-on strategies for ministry, partnership, and advocacy. Inside, churches will find ready-to-use flyers, a comprehensive directory of food banks and pantries across Eastern Missouri, and clear steps for launching or expanding parish-based food ministries.
“This resource is designed to make it easy for any congregation, large or small, to connect people with free food in their community,” said a spokesperson from the diocesan communications office. “By working together, our churches can offer hope and tangible help to those most affected by SNAP reductions.”
The toolkit also features an editable flyer template and a one-page “Quick Reference Handout” suitable for bulletin inserts or welcome tables. Both highlight local and diocesan food ministries, as well as statewide resources such as 211 Missouri, Feeding Missouri, and the Department of Social Services SNAP portal.
Parishes are encouraged to download the toolkit, share it widely, and explore opportunities to collaborate with regional food banks and neighboring congregations.