JONESBORO, AR – In recognition of Hunger Action Month this September, the Food Bank of Northeast Arkansas is partnering with the Feeding America network to raise awareness and promote local involvement in addressing food insecurity. The initiative, themed “Play Your Part,” encourages individuals to support neighbors in need through donations, volunteering, and advocacy.
Denis McDonough, CEO of Feeding America, underscored the importance of collective effort during challenging economic times. "Together we can end hunger," McDonough said. "When neighbors care for neighbors, we strengthen our communities."
According to Feeding America’s latest “Map the Meal Gap” study, 48 million people, including over 14 million children, struggled with food insecurity in 2024. Locally, food insecurity affects 19.4% to 25.2% of residents in the 12-county area served by the Food Bank of Northeast Arkansas, with the highest rates in Poinsett County.
Christie Jordan, CEO of the Food Bank of Northeast Arkansas, stated that around 38% of residents in Northeast Arkansas are food-insecure. Programs such as SNAP, WIC, and charitable food distributions provide vital resources, reaching 27% of residents to help meet their food needs. "Hunger Action Month calls on all of us to do what we can to ensure our neighbors have enough to eat," Jordan said.
Locals can support the cause through various events happening this month: - **Sept. 3:** Shadrachs Coffee locations in Jonesboro, Paragould, and Trumann will donate 100% of proceeds to the Food Bank. - **Sept. 4:** Panda Express in Jonesboro will contribute 20% of sales. - **Sept. 15:** Domino’s Pizza locations across 12 Northeast Arkansas counties will donate 15% of sales. - **Sept. 24:** The annual Empty Bowls fundraiser offers a drive-through lunch of soup, sandwich, chips, and dessert. Tickets are available through the Food Bank. - **Sept. 29:** Gearhead Outfitters in Uptown Jonesboro will donate proceeds to mark Hunger Action Day.
That same day, Feeding America will release its “2026 Elevating Voices: Insights Report,” detailing the experiences and concerns of individuals facing hunger in the U.S.
The Food Bank of Northeast Arkansas serves the region through 180 partner organizations, distributing millions of pounds of food annually to address hunger. To learn more about how to participate or contribute, visit [www.foodbankofnea.org](http://www.foodbankofnea.org).