Texarkana, Texas – On Tuesday, Harvest Regional Food Bank kicked off Hunger Action Month with its annual Hunger Action Luncheon held at Williams Memorial United Methodist Church. The event gathered community members, business partners and faith leaders to recognize the ongoing battle against hunger in the ArkLaTex region.
Keynote address emphasizes faith‑driven service
Arkansas State Representative Carol Dalby delivered the keynote speech, noting that hunger is a cause close to her heart. “I hope people realize this is a solvable issue,” Dalby said. “We must come together, recognize that our neighbors, friends, coworkers may be facing food insecurity, and work to alleviate it.”
Honoring volunteers and partners
The luncheon also highlighted the contributions of volunteers and partners. Mike Ingram was named the 2026 Hunger Hero of the Year. “I am honored to accept this on behalf of the volunteers,” Ingram said. “I’m just one person, proud to serve on the board and grateful for the dedication of our volunteers.”
Harvest Food Bank calls for continued support
Harvest CEO Camille Wrinkle urged attendees and the broader community to keep donating time, money and resources. “Everybody can bring something to the table,” Wrinkle said. “We are always looking for volunteers.”
According to a Harvest press release, food insecurity in the United States has risen to its highest level in over a decade, affecting more than 47 million people, including 14 million children. In the service area of Harvest Regional Food Bank, the rate of food insecurity ranges from 14 % to over 20 % each year.
Wrinkle highlighted that both Texas and Arkansas rank among the states with the highest food‑insecurity rates, especially among children under 18. “These are our neighbors, the people we live with, work with and attend school with,” she said.
Local impact and ways to help
The luncheon served as a reminder that the fight against hunger is a community effort rooted in faith, family and personal responsibility. Residents can support Harvest Regional Food Bank by donating non‑perishable foods, making monetary contributions, or volunteering at one of the many distribution sites across the region.
For more information on how to get involved, visit the Harvest Regional Food Bank website or contact their office directly.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
