The University of Arkansas at Little Rock College of Education and Health Professions is running a virtual food drive in partnership with the Arkansas Food Bank to raise money for those facing food insecurity issues in Arkansas. 

Rather than asking for donations of food items, a virtual food drive asks for financial donations. This allows the Arkansas Food Bank to buy the specific food staples they need and in larger quantities for less money than donated items.

Due to agreements the Arkansas Food Bank has with local grocery stores, a $1 donation can buy five substantial meals for food-insecure Arkansans.

The College of Education and Health Professions learned about the Arkansas Food Bank after having the school’s retreat at the organization.

“We are touched by the whole thing, but we are really touched by children,” said Dr. Bruce Smith, interim director of the School of Education. “Most of us work in teacher education, and it’s inconceivable to us that so many children have to worry about this.”

According to the Arkansas Food Bank, one in five people in Arkansas struggles to provide enough food for their families, and 25 percent of Arkansas children have limited access to adequate food.

Dr. Anarella Cellitti, associate professor of elementary education, and Dr. Daryl Tate, assistant professor of learning systems technology education, headed the virtual food drive committee.

The drive will run through Jan. 1. Visit this online link to donate.