30 Sep 2024 Arkansas Foodbank marks 40 year commitment to fighting hunger

Posted at 7:43 PMh in News by

This year, Arkansas Foodbank celebrates four decades of impact with a renewed commitment to breaking down hunger stereotypes and tackling food insecurity head-on. As the largest food bank in the state, and with Arkansas continuing to lead the nation in food insecurity, the Foodbank is ramping up efforts to provide access to nutritious food while deepening public understanding of the challenges Arkansans face, as reported by the USDA.

Central Arkansas community members helping the Arkansas Foodbank reach their 40th anniversary goals of reaching 40,000 volunteer hours, distributing 40 million pounds of food and raising $400,000 to fuel the fight against hunger. Photos courtesy Arkansas Foodbank.

“Hunger is often misunderstood,” said ShaRhonda Love, Arkansas Foodbank board chair. “During this anniversary year, we’re inviting everyone in Arkansas to not only celebrate with us but to stand alongside us as we continue working to make a meaningful difference for those who are unsure where their next meal will come from.“

Since its founding in 1984, Arkansas Foodbank has led the charge against hunger, distributing millions of meals to families and individuals across a 33-county service area. Through a trusted network of over 400 community partners—ranging from food pantries and churches to community centers and schools—the Foodbank has distributed more than half a billion pounds of food, serving hundreds of thousands of Arkansans in need.

“Over the last 40 years, Arkansas Foodbank has been a beacon of hope for millions, made possible by the generosity and compassion of our community,” said Brian Burton, CEO of Arkansas Foodbank. “As we celebrate this milestone, we’re not only reflecting on the past but intensifying our efforts to connect resources and deepen public understanding of the true scope of food insecurity in Arkansas.”

To commemorate this special anniversary, Arkansas Foodbank is launching a series of initiatives and events throughout its 33-county service area, aimed at expanding its reach and elevating awareness of food insecurity. Just last month, they kicked off Central Arkansas Restaurant Week, partnering with over 80 local restaurants to inspire the community to eat local and fight hunger. They’ve also completed a record-breaking year at the annual Empty Bowls Event and the Summer Cereal Drive. These efforts will continue into the holiday season, with educational programs, engaging community events, and new partnerships focused on both raising awareness and offering life-saving support.

As part of the anniversary year, the Foodbank has set bold goals: 40,000 volunteer hours, the distribution of 40 million pounds of food, and raising $400,000 to fuel the fight against hunger. Its cornerstone initiatives, including Food For Kids, Food For Families and Food For Seniors, enable the distribution of essential resources through a network of more than 400 food pantries, schools, colleges, shelters, senior centers and other agencies across Arkansas. 

For more information about Arkansas Foodbank’s 40th anniversary and how to get involved, visit arkansasfoodbank.org.