As Senator Chuck Schumer and Senate Democrats continue to keep the federal government shut down—halting critical benefits to thousands of Arkansans—Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders is stepping in to provide emergency support.
Governor Sanders announced today that she is directing $500,000 in emergency funds to six food bank networks across Arkansas, with additional allocations to be considered weekly if the shutdown continues. The funding will ensure Arkansans have access to essential food assistance as federal programs, including SNAP, face disruptions.
The Governor also launched an update to her administration’s HelpArkansas.com portal, which now connects residents to statewide food assistance resources and provides information on volunteering and donating to local food banks.
“What Senate Democrats are doing is unconscionable—playing political games with the food assistance that nearly a quarter million Arkansans rely on,” said Governor Sanders. “The simplest, fastest solution remains for Democrats to reopen the government and fund programs like SNAP. But in the meantime, my administration will work with legislators, churches, and food banks to help feed Arkansans.”
On Thursday, Governor Sanders secured emergency approval from the Arkansas Legislative Council chairs to direct $500,000 from Restricted Reserve funds to the state’s food banks starting Monday, November 3rd. Should the shutdown persist, additional weekly funding will be considered.
Arkansas Food Banks Receiving Funding
Northwest Arkansas Food Bank – Springdale
Food Bank of North Central Arkansas – Norfork
Food Bank of Northeast Arkansas – Jonesboro
River Valley Regional Food Bank – Fort Smith
Arkansas Foodbank – Little Rock
Lexa Branch
Warren Branch
Harvest Regional Food Bank – Texarkana
The Governor is also encouraging these food banks to purchase Arkansas-grown and manufactured goods, supporting local farmers and producers.
Arkansans Encouraged to Seek Assistance
Arkansas’ SNAP program serves nearly a quarter million beneficiaries across 2,700 retail locations statewide. Due to the ongoing shutdown, SNAP funding will cease on November 1st. Impacted Arkansans are encouraged to visit HelpArkansas.com
to find a nearby food bank and stay informed through updates from the Arkansas Department of Human Services.
Governor Sanders continues to prioritize efforts to combat food insecurity in Arkansas, including:
Launching free breakfast for every public school student in the state.
Enrolling Arkansas in Summer EBT, ensuring food access for children during summer months.
Expanding free school lunch eligibility for reduced-price students.
Creating a farm-to-school pilot program to provide schools with fresh, locally grown produce.
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