Urgent: Arkansas Food Pantries Mobilize Amid SNAP Program Uncertainty

UPDATE: Food pantries across Northwest Arkansas are mobilizing as the federal government shutdown threatens the future of the SNAP program, which assists over 222,000 residents. With October benefits fully funded, officials warn that November benefits may be at risk if the shutdown persists.

This urgent situation has led to heightened demand at local food pantries, prompting a comprehensive list of resources available for families in need. As the community braces for potential food insecurity, the need for immediate support has never been greater.

In Fayetteville, several food pantries are stepping up. The Northwest Arkansas Food Bank is actively coordinating food distribution efforts. Here are some essential resources:

• Cross Church Mobile Food Pantry: Located at 2801 W McMillan Drive, open on the 3rd Friday of each month from 9:00–11:00 a.m..
• Full Circle Campus Food Pantry: Found at 324 Stadium Drive, WAHR C204 Bud Walton Hall, operating Mondays from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and Wednesdays from 3–6 p.m. (valid UA or UAMS ID required).
• Genesis Church: Open Mondays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at 205 W MLK Jr Blvd.
• LifeSource International: Located at 682 S Lt Col Leroy Pond Ave, providing services on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 8:30–11:30 a.m. and evenings from 6:00–7:00 p.m..

As the government shutdown continues, pantries are also seeing an increase in visitors from nearby communities like Rogers, Springdale, and Fort Smith, all of which have their own food assistance programs in place.

The Salvation Army of Northwest Arkansas in Fayetteville is distributing food on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and Wednesdays through Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., while the Samaritan Community Center in Rogers serves hot meals and food distributions during weekdays.

For residents of the River Valley, the River Valley Regional Food Bank lists multiple pantries, including:

• Fort Smith C-SCDC Community Food Pantry: Open the third Tuesday of every other month from 7–9 a.m..
• Haven Heights Baptist Church: Provides emergency food assistance by appointment.
• Harvest Time Tabernacle: Available Mondays from 1–4 p.m., allowing visits once a month.

Many pantries require a form of identification and proof of residency, so residents are encouraged to check specific requirements before visiting. Operating hours may vary, and it is advised to call ahead to confirm availability.

Important Note: As the situation develops, food pantry hours and availability could change rapidly. Community members are urged to remain vigilant and reach out to local resources for assistance. The list of food pantries is continually updated. To contribute or add to this list, please email [email protected].

As the SNAP program faces uncertainty, these local food pantries are critical lifelines for families in Northwest Arkansas. The community is reminded to come together during these challenging times, ensuring that no one goes hungry.

Stay tuned for further updates as the situation evolves.