The NW Arkansas Food Bank is putting out an urgent call for volunteers as the region braces for the annual summer hunger gap — the months when thousands of children lose access to free school meals and families scramble to fill the void.
Between May and August, the food bank typically sees a 40 percent increase in demand across its network of pantries and mobile distributions in Benton and Washington counties. Last summer, the organization distributed more than 2.3 million meals across the region, and this year the need is expected to be even greater.
“When school lets out, a lot of families suddenly have to figure out two extra meals a day,” said a food bank spokesperson. “That’s where our volunteers make the difference — sorting, packing, and delivering food to the communities that need it most.”
Volunteer shifts are available Monday through Saturday at the food bank’s Bethel Heights distribution center. Groups, families, and individuals are all welcome. The food bank is also accepting monetary donations; every dollar provides four meals to a neighbor in need.
To sign up for a volunteer shift or organize a group outing, visit nwafoodbank.org. If you know a family that needs help this summer, call the food bank’s helpline at (479) 872-8774.
