Hundreds gather at the 2016 Missouri Poverty Summit

Nearly 350 Missourians gathered at the Capitol Plaza Hotel last Wednesday, April 27. Uniting them was a common cause: to end poverty in Missouri. Poverty is a multifaceted issue with many causes and conditions unique to different communities. The 2016 #MOPovertySummit focused on community-based solutions to addressing poverty statewide. Check out some pictures and social media highlights below. Become a member of Missourians to End Poverty on the website: www.MOEndPoverty.org

Heidi Lucas, chair of Missourians to End Poverty, welcomes attendees and introduces the Summit.

Treasurer Clint Zweifel opens the Summit. He encouraged the attendees to use conversations to spur meaningful action.

Realities of Poverty in Missouri panel discusses the latest statistics about poverty in Missouri. They also discussed legislative priorities like a Missouri Earned Income Tax Credit and raised minimum wage.

Janie Dunning, State Director of Rural Development, United States Department of Agriculture, dispels some of the myths about rural poverty.

The Community-Based Solutions Panel discusses how they address poverty on a city-level. From left to right, Susan Sundermeyer and Steven Duncan, Chamois residents, Mike Matthes, City Manager of Columbia, Greg Burris, City Manager of Springfield.

Greg Burris, City Manager of Springfield, presents Springfield’s unique plan in addressing poverty from multiple city partners.

Patrick Dougherty, member of Missourians to End Poverty, poses with keynote Dr. Tiffany Anderson.

Closing keynote, Dr. Tiffany Anderson, inspired attendees to make systemic change in their communities.