Food
Food connects every sector of our community, influencing health, education, agriculture, business, and quality of life. Its complexity and impact make it both a shared opportunity and challenge. This chapter highlights progress toward a more local, equitable, and nourishing food system while identifying areas where continued improvement is needed.
key metrics
10%
Less people received SNAP benefits in May 2026 compared to one year prior.
That is over 3,000 people, and the largest year-over-year decrease in benefits since 2021.
January 2026
The first month that inflation started out pacing the average SNAP benefit, over a five-year period.
The effect of a sharp increase in benefits in October 2022 has since worn off.
2026 report
Springfield's food system is growing more connected, powered by a strong network of partners, closer ties between local farmers and families, and shared statewide strategies for food access. The challenges are just as clear: one in five children in the region faces food insecurity, funding cuts are straining local food organizations, and lasting progress needs stronger community infrastructure with more people with lived experience at the table.
Strong, diverse partner network
One of the region's greatest assets is the growing collaboration among organizations working across food, nutrition, healthcare, agriculture, education, philanthropy, emergency food assistance, faith, and community development.
These partnerships have helped break down traditional silos, creating a more connected and coordinated food system.
Through collaboration, organizations are increasing awareness of available resources, reducing duplication of efforts, strengthening relationships, and expanding opportunities for residents to access nutritious food and nutrition education.
Increased connection between farmers and consumers
The Food Collaborative's inaugural Local Table Tour in 2026 highlighted this strong partner network by showcasing Springfield Public Schools' Ag Academy, Springfield Community Gardens, and local farms and food growers.
The event increased awareness of organizations strengthening the food system while demonstrating the growing connection between farmers and consumers.
Statewide and regional alignment
The region has also contributed to statewide and regional alignment through participation in the Missouri Rural Food Access Partnership.
This collaboration has united stakeholders from healthcare, agriculture, economic development, education, philanthropy, emergency food systems, and government to develop shared strategies, including a Missouri Food System Charter and Healthy Food Financing Initiative framework.
These efforts have increased coordination, strengthened partnerships, and created a common vision for advancing food access, affordability, sustainability, and equity across Missouri.
Persistent areas of low access and food insecurity
Food insecurity continues to affect many residents throughout Southwest Missouri.
Regional estimates indicate that one in five children and one in six adults experience food insecurity, while some areas face even higher rates.
Springfield's Food Desert Resolution identified approximately 37,000 food-insecure residents living in low-access neighborhoods.
Funding cuts threatening local food organizations
Funding instability represents a second major concern. Recent federal funding reductions have decreased resources available for community food programs, affecting services such as mobile markets, produce distribution, and nutrition initiatives.
Civic and community infrastructure and participation
The third challenge is a lack of coordinated and sustained civic participation and infrastructure.
While concern about food insecurity is widespread, participation in programs, events, and solutions can be limited and are often volunteer-based.
Strong community networks, trusted institutions, local leadership, and active resident involvement are essential for addressing complex challenges and building resilience.
