November brings a season of Thanksgiving. But I am wondering today, if I were among the 1 in 5 Arkansans experiencing food insecurity each month, what other emotions would I be feeling if I was unable to meet the most basic needs for myself and my family?
The majority of those Arkansans are children and perhaps are currently in your program. Our staff are also among those Arkansans. We know that nearly 40% of our staff experience food insecurity and that is before the government shutdown and the pause on SNAP benefits.
I believe we ALL do this work because we care about children and their families AND we know the most important asset in our program is our staff. So, in this time of uncertainty for those we care about and regardless of our political affiliation, I ask that you consider these two actions:
- If you have the means, donate or volunteer at your local food bank OR donate to the Arkansas Food Bank. I’ve learned that my money goes further when I give it to them. Right now, they are providing assistance to government workers who are furloughed without pay and providing pop-up food distribution services in areas of greatest need.
My family has volunteered at their distribution center many times over many years, and I have seen firsthand the efficiencies of their organization.
- Share information with staff and families about resources available. The Arkansas Food Bank website has a button on their site “Find Food.” Resources are not listed for every county, so if you are in a zip code outside their scope, you can share FindHelp.org as an option for staff and families. In fact, this link is bookmarked on my computer and something you may want to bookmark for future use as well.
Among the list of things, I am Thankful for this November – to work with the most wise, loving, and exceptional professionals I have had the pleasure of meeting = AR ECE Program Leaders.
Thank YOU in advance for your consideration to this matter.
Geania Dickey
AECA Immediate Past Public Policy Chair
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