(Little Rock, KATV) — Arkansas food pantries are feeling the strain as increased tariff rates and inflation leave more households seeking assistance.
The state ranks first in the nation for food insecurity, and with rising prices, the demand on food pantries is expected to grow.
Chris Wyman, Executive Director of Potluck Food Rescue, said, “We will feel the effects because it’s going to lead to more food insecurity.” He noted that paychecks are not keeping up with inflation, and new tariffs are making it harder for people to afford basic necessities like food.
“It’s frustrating, because not only are families struggling, but a lot of that food ends up going to waste since people just can’t afford to buy it, Wyman explained.
“Potluck Food Rescue collects food from restaurants, grocery stores, and other sources, distributing it to food pantries that serve local communities. We’re bringing in a ridiculous amount of food that we’re picking and we’re pushing it right back out the door to constituent agencies that are then getting it to their constituency.”
The organization has expanded its partnerships from 62 agencies to over 100 in just eight months, as more Arkansans struggle to put food on the table.
Wyman warned that suppliers and distributors will also feel the pressure.
“Restaurants will start to see the hurt as well, because it’s not only going to affect like Walmart. I mean, they’re buying the stuff wholesale as well. So, you know, the food purveyors are also doing the same. So it’s going up for everyone. It will affect everyone,” he said.
Despite the challenges, Potluck Food Rescue remains committed to ensuring food reaches those in need.
“We’re all inclusive. It’s not about politics. It’s about that moral value of feeding people,” Wyman said.
He described the situation as disappointing, emphasizing that no one should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from.