JONESBORO, Ark. — The Northeast Arkansas Food Bank announced that it has an ample supply of baby formula available for families in need.
The organization hosted a special distribution event Friday morning at the Allen Park Community Center in Jonesboro. However, it still has more formula to distribute and plans another giveaway on Wednesday, October 14, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the same location on Race Street.
The food bank recently received 1,300 cases of 8-ounce, ready-to-drink Similac Dual Prebiotic formula. Terry Austin, the food bank’s development officer, credited the acquisition to a rare opportunity brought to their attention by a warehousing organization.
“This was one of those rare occasions where, if I understand correctly, a warehousing organization made us aware of this opportunity, and we were able to grab a couple of pallets,” Austin said.
He emphasized the importance of the giveaway for families who are already struggling to stretch their grocery budgets. “With food dollars being stretched thin already, we love the idea of being able to put infant formula into those households with little ones,” Austin added.
The Similac formula being distributed includes a blend of prebiotics (HMO and FOS) designed to support babies’ digestive health. It is also iron-fortified to help prevent iron deficiency and support brain development. Families are encouraged to consult with their child’s doctor before making any changes to their baby’s diet.
Questions have arisen about how the food bank is providing infant formula while continuing to solicit donations to keep its shelves stocked with other food items. Austin explained that the food bank's food sourcing team works year-round to find opportunities to provide food to families across northeast Arkansas.
“Yes, we are short on food, and yes, this is great for us and for our neighbors in Northeast Arkansas. Everybody’s expenses are up right now, whether we’re talking about food, fuel, or any other household good,” Austin said.
While Wednesday’s event will be held in Jonesboro, it is open to families from all 12 counties served by the Northeast Arkansas Food Bank. No strict limits are set on how much formula individuals can receive; distribution will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Families unable to attend the giveaway but in need of baby formula or other groceries can visit the food bank’s website and use the “find food” tool to locate nearby pantries.
In addition to the food bank’s efforts, the Mississippi County Union Mission in Blytheville is also distributing the same type of Similac formula.
Austin expressed hope that the food bank will be able to provide similar distributions in the future, depending on availability.
For more information, visit the Northeast Arkansas Food Bank’s website.