Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders says she is directing half a million dollars to food banks across the state. This comes amid the ongoing shutdown of the federal government. Governor Sanders say the funding will go toward six food bank networks across the state beginning on Monday, November 3, 2025. The statement explained that the governor secured emergency action from the Arkansas Legislative Council chairs to direct $500,000 in Restricted Reserve funds to food banks. It further states that Gov. Sanders will consider additional, weekly allocations to those food banks. Those six Arkansas food bank networks include:
- Northwest Arkansas Food Bank at Springdale
- Food Bank of North Central Arkansas at Norfolk
- Food Bank of Northeast Arkansas at Jonesboro
- River Valley Regional Food Bank at Fort Smith
- Arkansas Foodbank at Little Rock
- Arkansas Foodbank Lexa Branch
- Arkansas Foodbank Warren Branch
- Harvest Regional Food Bank at Texarkana
As Little Rock Public Radio reports, the Arkansas Department of Human Services says more than 222,000 Arkansans currently receive SNAP benefits. Meanwhile, DHS is preparing to furlough over 1,500 employees over the next week as the federal government remains closed. DHS Secretary Janet Mann told reporters Friday, October 31, that 34 employees would be furloughed starting Saturday, November 1. Arkansas DHS manages federal dollars for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and other social services. Mann says the coming weeks will be painful for Arkansans who rely on DHS. “There will be an immense need for food assistance in our state because of this ongoing shutdown. If you can help please do so. Now is the time to check on your neighbor, your family, your friends and extend an open hand to those in need.” Mann referenced a recent federal judge ruling asking the USDA to use emergency funds to extend SNAP programs. Mann said Arkansas will await guidance from the USDA’s Nutrition Services Office to determine if and how the state will be impacted by the rulings.”
