United Way’s Caring Connection branch packs hundreds of meal kits for community

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- United Way of Greater St. Joseph's Caring Connection branch is assembling and distributing hundreds of meal kits to help address food insecurity in the region.

Each kit contains shelf-stable ingredients for a family meal, requiring only water and heat to prepare.

Organizers say approximately 45 volunteers participate per session, ranging from individuals to housing organizations.

Over six days, volunteers will pack about 1,800 kits, translating to roughly 1,200 pounds of food per day.

The effort began following a large donation from Mosaic Life Care last year, when government shutdown concerns raised food access issues.

Since then, United Way says the program has grown steadily.

The kits are distributed through local food pantries and community agencies, with some also available for pickup directly at United Way.

"In the span of six days, we will pack 1,800 meal kits," said Jodi Flurry, Director of Community Investment. "These meal kits get out into the community through different agencies and programs, maybe through a food pantry, Community Action Partnership, InterServ, Specialty Industries, places where people might need help or might need food. We also have meal kits available here at United Way."

Spots remain open for this Saturday's volunteer session.

More information is available on United Way's website.