A recent survey titled “Hunger in Arkansas” reveals that thousands of families across the state are struggling to put enough food on the table, even as participation in food assistance programs reaches record levels.
The statewide survey, conducted in 2025, examines food insecurity using a “hunger continuum,” categorizing survey participants into four groups based on their access to food and use of assistance programs. Results show 14% of Arkansans fall into the first group, where they receive no food assistance and lack enough to eat. Another 23% occupy the second group, where some aid is provided but does not fully meet their needs. Fourteen percent make up the third group, meeting basic food needs solely because of programs like Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), or charitable food. Only 47% of respondents reported having consistent food access without any external help.
Christie Jordan, CEO of the Northeast Arkansas Food Bank, said the survey underscores the challenges faced by those in groups two and three. "We have stop two — those are people that are receiving some food assistance, but still not enough to meet their food needs. Stop three are people that have enough food to meet their basic needs, but it’s only because they’re receiving some sort of assistance like SNAP, WIC, or charitable food," Jordan explained.
Food insecurity in Arkansas has been rising, Jordan said, despite food banks nearly doubling their distribution of charitable food over the past decade. According to Jordan, individuals in the first group—those receiving no assistance—often misunderstand their eligibility, are deterred by complex application processes, or assume others are in greater need of help.
To address accessibility, the Northeast Arkansas Food Bank has partnered with a tool called MRelief to help families determine eligibility and apply for SNAP benefits. Jordan noted, however, that policy obstacles like asset limits further complicate the picture. SNAP qualification rules generally cap savings at $2,500, discouraging families from saving for emergencies.
“There’s no incentive for people to save money, because as soon as they save $2,500 for an emergency—maybe an emergency car repair, or to get a better place to live—then you’re automatically kicked off the program,” Jordan said.
Jordan attributed some of the state’s notable food insecurity rates, now the highest in the United States, to multiple policy-related barriers. She cited Arkansas’ confusing application process and low asset limits as key factors hampering families’ ability to access consistent food security.
Residents with questions or in need of assistance can contact the Northeast Arkansas Food Bank at 870-932-FOOD or visit foodbankofnea.org for more information.