Texarkana, Arkansas has witnessed a remarkable transformation over the past 35 years with the opening of the Harvest Regional Food Bank. This humble beginning with just three people in a van has now grown into a 25,000-square-foot facility, addressing the critical issue of food insecurities in the area.

"Celebrating 35 Years of Feeding the Community"

Origins and Growth

Thirty-five years ago, the doors of the Harvest Regional Food Bank swung open in Texarkana. Camille Wrinkle, the food bank's executive director, recalls those early days with a sense of pride. Starting with a small team and a van, the food bank has steadily expanded its reach and services.

Today, it serves 10 counties in both Arkansas and Texas, providing food to around 60,000 people annually. This growth is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the staff and the support of the community.

Membership and Expansion

The food bank's journey didn't stop at its local roots. It eventually became a member of Feeding America, opening up new opportunities for growth and collaboration. As a result, the number of counties served, the number of people fed, and the amount of food provided to the community have all seen significant increases.

This expansion has allowed the food bank to make a more substantial impact on the lives of those facing food insecurities. It has become a vital lifeline for many families and individuals in the region.

New Addition and Community Impact

On Tuesday (Dec. 10), the food bank celebrated its anniversary with the official opening of a new addition. This includes a commercial kitchen and an education center.

The commercial kitchen will not only be used by the food bank but also open up opportunities for cooking classes and nutritious, healthy demonstrations. These classes will empower community members with the knowledge and skills to prepare healthy meals at home.

The education center will also serve as a hub for community engagement. It will provide a space for workshops, training sessions, and information sharing on food security and nutrition.

Moreover, the food bank will be able to vend its own hot meals for summer feeding and after-school sites, ensuring that children and families have access to nutritious food even outside of regular meal times.

Future Plans and Sustainability

Camille Wrinkle is confident that the food bank is ready for another 35 years of service. The organization is committed to continuing its work and expanding its reach even further.

Funded through grants and community donations, the Harvest Regional Food Bank relies on the support of the community to fulfill its mission. With the new addition and increased capacity, the food bank is well-positioned to meet the growing needs of the community in the years to come.

It is a testament to the power of community collaboration and the importance of addressing food insecurities. The Harvest Regional Food Bank is a shining example of what can be achieved when people come together to make a difference.

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