LITTLE ROCK, AR— With Arkansas already leading the nation in food insecurity, hunger relief organizations are sounding the alarm after the passage of a federal budget bill that slashes nearly $200 billion from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
The legislation—touted by supporters as the “Big Beautiful Bill”—passed both chambers of Congress this week and now heads to President Donald Trump’s desk for signing.
Arkansas Foodbank: “No Arkansan Should Go Hungry”
The Arkansas Foodbank warns the sweeping cuts could reduce food access for hundreds of thousands across the state, especially vulnerable populations like children and seniors.
“These changes threaten access to food for families who are already struggling,” said CEO Brian Burton. “We call on our community to give, volunteer, and advocate—because no Arkansan should have to wonder where their next meal will come from.”
According to the organization:
- 1 in 5 Arkansans faces food insecurity.
- Over 240,000 residents rely on SNAP.
- 64% of SNAP recipients are families with children.
Local Nonprofits Brace for Surging Demand
At Potluck Food Rescue in Little Rock, Executive Director Chris Wyman says his team is already overwhelmed.
“We’re looking at folks who work two jobs and still can’t afford groceries,” Wyman said. “When you’re working that hard, the last thing your family should have to worry about is where their next meal is coming from.”
Potluck partners with the Arkansas Foodbank and local donors to distribute surplus food across schools, libraries, shelters, and rural communities. But Wyman fears a SNAP rollback will flood nonprofits with even more need than they can handle.
“If you don’t think it’s going to affect you,” he warned, “it just hasn’t yet.”
Read Also: ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ Targets Tax Cuts for Seniors Receiving Social Security
Real People, Real Impact
Julie, a retired cake decorator from Pulaski County, says she receives $60 a month in SNAP benefits.
“It fills the gap,” she said. “Cutting those benefits means a lot of elderly people and children will be left out. For some of us, it’s the only way we can eat.”
How You Can Help Fight Hunger in Arkansas
With new SNAP restrictions looming, local food banks need your help now more than ever.
- Donate nonperishable goods
- Volunteer your time at local pantries
- Advocate for food security policies
Stay updated and get involved at ridgecrestpact.org
