FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Vicki Pillow
870-932-3663 x 104
Food Bank of Northeast Arkansas receives Grant from Walmart Foundation to Provide
Fresh Produce
Jonesboro, AR, October 18, 2016 – Today, the Food Bank of Northeast Arkansas
received an $85,000 grant from the Walmart Foundation’s State Giving Program to
assist with their Fresh Produce Distribution Program. Specifically, this grant will
positively impact the local community by providing 320,000 pounds of fresh fruits and
vegetables to individuals at-risk of hunger.
“Living in an agricultural state, many of us take for granted the access we have to fresh
fruits and vegetables,” said Christie Jordan, CEO for the Food Bank of Northeast
Arkansas. “Hearing the excitement and gratitude from recipients of fresh produce is a
reminder that many of our neighbors can’t always afford to choose healthy fruits and
vegetables as part of their regular diet.”
“At the Walmart Foundation, we understand that organizations such as the Food Bank
of Northeast Arkansas are essential to building stronger communities. They share our
values and are committed to helping Northeast Arkansans in need live better,” said
Michael Lindsey, Director Walmart Public Affairs. “Through this donation, we are hopeful
that residents at-risk of hunger in Northeast Arkansas will receive much needed
nutritious produce to help them feed their families.”
Arkansas continually has one of the highest rates of food insecurity in the nation.
According to the Map the Meal Gap report, issued by Feeding America, the Food
Insecurity rate in Arkansas is 19.1%. In comparison, the Food Insecurity rate in the
Food Bank of Northeast Arkansas’ 12 county service area is 23.9%, with an estimated
83,900 food insecure individuals.
The Walmart Foundation’s State Giving Program supports organizations that create
opportunities so people can live better, awarding grants that have a long-lasting,
positive impact on communities across the U.S.