Food insecurity on the rise in Arkansas

Food insecurity has increased this year and the Arkansas Foodbank is asking residents to take action in response to the alarming increase in food insecurity across the state.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 2024 report showed 18.9% of Arkansas households now face food insecurity, the highest percentage in the nation, up from 16.6% in 2023.

Economic pressures, including inflation, rising costs of living, and reductions in federal assistance programs, have contributed to this significant rise. Many low-income households are struggling to afford necessities, according to Brian Burton, CEO of Arkansas Foodbank.

“The USDA’s latest report is a wake-up call, a powerful reminder that hunger is a reality for far too many Arkansans,” said Burton. “During Hunger Action Month, we’re not just talking about numbers—we’re talking about people. Families, children, and seniors across our state are struggling to put food on the table. We must come together with urgency and compassion to ensure every Arkansan has access to the nourishment they need to thrive.”

Hunger Action Month is a national movement launched by Feeding America to raise awareness and inspire action against hunger. Arkansas Foodbank is stepping up its efforts during September by encouraging community members to sign up for a volunteer shift, donate food or funds, and use their platform to advocate for hunger relief.

“This is the time to act,” said Burton. “Whether you give your time, your resources, or simply help us spread the word, every gesture matters. Hunger is not someone else’s problem—it’s ours to solve together. We can change the story for the nearly one in five Arkansas households struggling with food insecurity.”

Arkansas Foodbank is calling on local businesses, organizations, and individuals to support its mission this September. Contributions made during Hunger Action Month will directly assist those most in need and help alleviate the growing hunger crisis in the state.