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More than 70,000 residents of Northwest Arkansas are food insecure according to Julie Damer, director of marketing and communications for the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank. Those who are considered food insecure do not have access to enough food for all members of the household at all times. "The number is very fluid as people move in and out of the area every day," Damer pointed out. "We are seeing more and more new faces at our partner agencies and mobile pantries each month." Many food insecure families cut back on food expenditures to pay for critical household expenses. According to research by Feeding America, more than two-thirds of households report having to choose between food and utilities, medicine or transportation. The Northwest Arkansas Food Bank was founded in 1989 by June Self, with the goal to nourish, feed and lead those in need. Headquartered in Springdale, the program distributes food through over 110 partner agencies in Benton, Washington, Carroll and Madison counties. In addition, they have 20 mobile pantries that directly distribute food to outlying areas. In partnership with several area schools, the food bank's School Pantry program provides food to students and their families that need a little extra help. The food is picked up by the families at the school when they pick up their children, eliminating the need to make an extra trip to a local pantry. Working with local hospitals and emergency service agencies, the food bank provides emergency boxes that contain staple food items. Local law enforcement and paramedics carry the boxes in their vehicles and hand them out to those in need. In 2022, the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank distributed over 13.8 million pounds of food and provided over 11.1 million meals in the four-county area. Damer added that quality, nutritious food is a priority. "Food does much more than just fill a stomach. We are continually trying to secure fresh fruits and vegetables for our clients, as well as canned foods that are lower in sodium, low-sugar canned fruits, fresh protein and whole grains. Healthy foods help keep people healthy," she said. The Northwest Arkansas Food Bank is always looking for volunteers and donations. "We appreciate every single donation we receive – no matter the size. All donations we receive go directly to those in need in our area. You can donate food, time or money to us and make a difference in someone's life," Damer said. "We couldn't do what we do without volunteers – and it is super easy to sign up. Just visit our website, click to volunteer and register for a day and time that is convenient for you. We gladly welcome individuals, groups or companies!" A full list of partner agencies and monthly food pantry schedule is available at www. nwafoodbank.org. Meeting the needs of the food insecure by KAREN rice | Photos by blake sutton 8

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