Arvest Million Meals campaign returns, will benefit local food pantries

Arvest Bank has launched its annual Million Meals campaign, a two-month effort aimed at raising money to combat hunger across the region, with a portion of funds staying in Carroll County.

The campaign, now in its 16th year, runs through May 31 and supports more than 70 food partners across Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri and Kansas, including Loaves & Fishes in Berryville and Flint Street Fellowship in Eureka Springs.

Donations collected locally will go directly to those organizations, helping provide food assistance to residents in need during the summer months, when many children lose access to school-based meals.

Each dollar donated through the campaign can provide up to five meals, according to organizers.

The effort comes as Arkansas continues to rank among the most food-insecure states in the country, with about 19 percent of households reporting they do not have enough food. Nationally, nearly one in five households with children experienced food insecurity in 2024.

Since its launch in 2011, the Million Meals campaign has helped provide more than 28 million meals and raised more than $5.1 million. Last year alone, the initiative delivered a record 3.08 million meals.

Donations will be accepted through May 31 at Arvest Bank branches or online.