Show-Me State Times

Community gardens in Missouri are serving as more than just spaces for growing food, according to recent updates from the University of Missouri Extension. The organization supports up to 900 community gardens annually across the state, providing infrastructure and educational programs that help communities grow fresh produce and foster connections among participants.

“One unique aspect of each community garden is that local communities decide how the produce is distributed,” said Jo Britt-Rankin, extension professor at MU Extension. “Most of the gardens support school or agency food-service programs, while others share the produce among garden participants or with the broader community. Some donate to local food pantries.”

The impact of these gardens extends beyond social benefits. Each garden produces at least $600 worth of vegetables annually, resulting in a combined value exceeding $540,000 per year. On average, 38 individuals and families benefit from each garden’s output, and many go on to start their own home gardens after learning new techniques.

MU Extension has also provided substantial material support this year through its Jefferson Farm and Garden Extension and Education Center. Over 20,000 bedding plants have been distributed to community farms so far in 2025, with another 10,000 expected by year’s end—a total value estimated at $150,000. Additional supplies such as seeds, hand tools, hoses, portable sheds, soil, and water systems were made available thanks in part to Community Development Block Grants from the Missouri Department of Social Services.

These efforts are part of MU Extension’s Policy, Systems and Environment work aimed at improving access to health resources like nutritious food and walkable neighborhoods throughout Missouri. Most supported gardens are located at schools or community centers.

Recent data highlight ongoing challenges with food insecurity in Missouri. The newly released 2025 Missouri Hunger Atlas shows an increase in hunger rates between 2021 and 2023 as rising food prices and inflation coincided with the end of pandemic-related stimulus programs. The atlas tracks trends across all counties in Missouri as well as St. Louis City.

“This is a tool to help decision-makers be more effective and efficient,” said Bill McKelvey, co-author of the report and program support coordinator for MU Extension’s Missouri EATS program. “It’s a dynamic document they can use to see the needs and find the most appropriate solutions for their communities.”

Missouri EATS works alongside local partners to address food needs by expanding community gardens, launching farmers markets, and improving emergency food service coordination.

“The goal is to help communities have conversations about food systems in general,” McKelvey said. “We provide the framework for them to take action and make changes that work best in their areas.”

The Hunger Atlas serves as a resource for agencies seeking grants or donations by documenting local need.

“I hear from a lot of people that they use this resource to help counter food insecurity through grant applications and fundraising campaigns,” McKelvey said. “It’s an important tool for demonstrating the need in their own communities.”