FFA Champions Miss Oklahoma’s Battle Against Hunger

Volume 36

Number 2

Spring 2005

Story by Ann Houston

FFA Champions Miss Oklahoma’s Battle Against Hunger

A record-breaking 41,275 pounds of food, collected by the 356 FFA chapters across Oklahoma, was donated to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma.

The food drive culminated at the 79th Annual State FFA Convention held April 26-27 in Oklahoma City and supports Miss Oklahoma Elizabeth Kinney’s educational platform fighting hunger in Oklahoma.

The more than 20 tons of donated non-perishable food items overwhelmed Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma’s Urban Harvest Director Chris Kirby.

“We are thankful to the FFA for the incredible food drive they had and the record-breaking poundage donation,” Kirby said. “Wow! 41,275 lbs that filled 45 big totes!!!! Awesome!! We want to thank the FFA for the time and effort they put forth!”

Miss Oklahoma Elizabeth Kinney, a former state FFA reporter, knew that with “Living to Serve” as part of the FFA motto, the members would help fight the battle against hunger.

She asked the local FFA chapters, associated with CareerTech’s agricultural education programs across Oklahoma, to each bring 100 pounds of nonperishable food for the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma to the convention. Wristbands were also sold for $3 with proceeds going to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma.

The project reflects this year’s convention theme,“Learn, Lead and Succeed,” ensuring that students are prepared to realize their dreams through integrated education and hands-on experiences.

Left to right: Mitchell Smith, Byng FFA Chapter President; Rodney Bivens, Executive Director, Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma and Miss Oklahoma Elizabeth Kinney.

“I’m enthused that FFA, an organization that helped me achieve my goals, continues to give back,” said Kinney. “It makes sense that one of the greatest agricultural organizations be involved in a community service project to help feed Oklahomans.”