Food insecurity is a pressing topic these days as families are faced with rising costs and the uncertainty of government assistance. Kansas City is lucky to have Harvesters, who works to feed hungry people today and end hunger for tomorrow. They are facing challenges in meeting that mission, which leads to our conversation in today's episode.

We’re excited to talk with KC native Cierra Howe, the Special Projects Content Manager at Harvesters, The Community Food Network. Cierra leads social media, video production, Spanish-language communications, and storytelling across the organization. She is also a mom to two young boys, ages four and one. 

In our conversation, we discuss:

Cierra's journey into this work and how her role supports Harvesters’ mission of feeding neighbors across Kansas City

The challenges families face when seeking food assistance, especially language and cultural barriers- and why clear, culturally thoughtful communication matters so much

How Harvesters has been affected by the federal government shutdown and delays in SNAP payments

Cierra's hopes for the future and simple, meaningful ways you and your kids can get involved.

Cierra Howe is the special projects content manager at Harvesters - The Community Food Network in Kansas City, Missouri, where she leads efforts in social media, video production, Spanish communications and storytelling. She also has a side photography business called Snapshots by Cie. Cierra is the mom of two young boys, 4 and 1, with big imaginations and wild spirits. Born and raised in KC, Cierra loves to cook, read and be one with nature.

Links to Reference

Main Harvesters website: www.harvesters.org

Spanish harvesters website: www.harvesters.org/es

Food assistance: www.harvesters.org/foodlocator

Government shutdown updates: www.harvesters.org/shutdown

Donate: www.harvesters.org/givemoney

Volunteer: www.harvesters.org/givetime

Donate food: www.harvesters.org/givefood

Advocate: www.harvesters.org/givevoice

Follow Harvesters on Facebook and Instagram.

Cold and flu season is upon us but simple handwashing can help keep germs at bay. Wet hands with water, lathering with soap, clean and scrub the entire surface for 20 seconds- about how long it takes to sing happy birthday. Rinse hands with water and dry hands with a single use towel.

Children’s Mercy Kansas City is built for kids. That’s why we have been taking care of the kids in the community for more than 125 years. Learn more. 

What We’re Loving In Kansas City

KC Mom + Baby Fair

Kansas City Mom Collective invites you to KC Mom + Baby on Sunday, November 16, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Olathe Conference Center. Bring your partner, your mom, your sister, or anyone supporting you through this new chapter of life and enjoy a morning full of connections to the businesses, products and support you need to navigate life with your baby! The first 150 moms in the door will get an awesome swag bag!

Take Out Thanksgiving

Megan and her family opt out of the cooking part of Thanksgiving and she says it's the best. Check out our guide to take out options in Kansas City! Grocery stores, restaurants, and caterers offer full meals (or just the turkey or sides) and there are also businesses offering turkeys, hams, and other main dishes. Many require you pick up the meal and reheat, but some are open on Thanksgiving and you can grab your meal hot and ready to serve. There are also amazing bakeries offering pies and dinner rolls.

Connect with Megan and Sarah

We would love to hear from you! Send us an e-mail or find us on Instagram or Facebook!