The Southwest Arkansas Food Bank in Arkadelphia is in dire need of help. Monetary donations, cereal and canned goods are slow due to the economy.
When the foodbank has to purchase these items, it puts an additional strain on the agency, because it has to purchase them at cost.
Counties that are served are Garland, Clark, Montgomery, Nevada, Hot Spring and Union. There are 84 agencies and churches that use the Food Bank to help with their food service pantries. It is easier for a large church agency to purchase items at cost than a small one. The small churches must limit the amount of their donations by a considerable amount to those who are in need.
Facing the decision between food and medication is a growing problem with families, especially the elderly, according to SWARFB. Another decision low-income families must face is choosing between rent and utilities or food.
Judy Garcia, executive director of SWARFB-Arkadelphia, said, “I am here on a mission, not for me, but for the people who are in need of assistance and help. I am very adamant concerning older people and making sure they have food.”
Any after school programs that need snacks should contact the Food Bank at 246-8244.
Any individual, business or organization that would like to make a donation can make a delivery. Another option is scheduling a pick-up with SWARFB.
The agency is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m.-3 p.m.