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.

The third annual Harvest Hootenanny will be held on Saturday, September 29, 2012 from 3-8 p.m. The Hootenanny is a celebration of the growing season and a fundraising event at CCUA’s Urban Farm, there is a suggested donation of $5-20 at the door. There will be plenty to do for the whole family, so bring ‘em all! The entire Urban Farm will have interpretive signs and volunteers to help you learn about our fruit, vegetable, herb, flower, egg, and chicken production. Also, while you’re at the farm you can sign up to become a CCUA member, buy a “Food is Good” t-shirt and talk to staff and volunteers about CCUA’s different programs. There will be live music, a Missouri-grown meal (free), a live and silent auction (6 p.m.), kids games, roasted chestnuts, free t-shirt drawings, local beer and wine (free), and tons of fun!

This weekend’s Edible Columbia tour offers a chance to visit some community gardens, an urban farm and other local food projects. The tour happens Sunday September 16 from 2-5 p.m. For the cost of a small donation, you’ll also get dinner at Comedor Popular.
Tickets available at the Peace Nook. For more information, visit the Center for Sustainable Living or call 573-875-0539.

Thursday, June 28, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
719 W. Broadway

James Quinn, MU Extension regional horticulture specialist will give a tour of his garden and discuss different raised bed and intensive gardening techniques. Read more.