Celebrating 40 Years of Fighting Hunger

The Arkansas Foodbank, the largest food bank in the state, is celebrating its 40th year of service with a reinvigorated mission to tackle food insecurity and hunger stereotypes in Arkansas. As the state leads the nation in food insecurity, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Foodbank is intensifying its efforts to educate Arkansans about hunger and provide access to nutritious food for Arkansans in need.

Since its inception in 1984, Arkansas Foodbank has been at the forefront of hunger relief, distributing millions of meals to individuals and families across its 33-county service area through a network of more than 400 community partners, including pantries, churches, community centers, and schools. Through this network, the Foodbank has distributed more than half a billion pounds of food to hundreds of thousands of Arkansans.

“Over our 40-year journey, the Arkansas Foodbank has been a lifeline for millions of Arkansans, thanks to the immense generosity of our community. This anniversary highlights that enduring spirit of support,” said Brian Burton, CEO of Arkansas Foodbank. “We remain committed to connecting resources so that we can continue providing this essential aid, while also striving to deepen public understanding about the true scope of food insecurity in our state and what that means for our future.”

In celebration of its 40th anniversary, Arkansas Foodbank is expanding its reach with a series of diverse initiatives and events throughout its 33-county service area. These efforts encompass educational programs to heighten awareness of food insecurity, engaging community events, and forging new partnerships. The goal is to continue providing life-saving assistance and cultivate a more informed and resilient community in the fight against hunger.

“The issue of hunger is often misunderstood and oversimplified,” says ShaRhonda Love, board chair of Arkansas Foodbank. “During this landmark anniversary year, we’re warmly inviting the communities we serve in Arkansas to join us in celebrating this milestone, but also recognizing the work we need to do to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who aren’t sure where they’ll find their next meal.”