One thing that’s always bothered me about traditional food drives is the emphasis on processed food. It makes sense, of course, because it’s easier to distribute shelf-stable food items, but many food products that are non-perishable are also not as nutritious and all-around good-to-eat as fresh foods prepared in your home kitchen. Stepping right up to the plate to fix that problem is the MLK Day Fresh Food Drive sponsored by Americorps Vista and the Missouri River Communities Network.

It’s happening this weekend, January 18, 19 & 20, so stop by the Clover’s Natural Foods on E. Broadway or the Columbia Farmer’s Market (Saturday in Parkade Plaza
) to contribute. All food collected will be donated for cooked meals at the Salvation Army Harbor House, the Catholic Worker Houses of Columbia, and the Loaves and Fishes Soup Kitchen. Though the emphasis will be on fresh produce, packaged food donations will also be gratefully accepted.