Individuals and organizations that help feed Arkansas' hungry were honored at the Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance's Hunger Action Breakfast on Sept. 28 at the Junior League of Little Rock building.
Lt. Gov. Tim Griffin was the guest speaker. He thanked those who have a part in alleviating hunger and for being a part of the solution. "The problem's not gone, but what you are doing makes a huge impact."
"When you feed someone," he said. "You are also feeding their soul. You're saying, you matter, we love you, we want you to be well and we care for you."
Four individuals received Acting Out Against Hunger awards: Michele Rodgers of Little Rock, outreach and special projects manager at the Department of Human Services; cattleman John Paul Pendergrast of Charleston with the Arkansas Beef Project; Ruedean Lester of Calico Rock, who operates The Food Room; and Cherry Valley Food Pantry director Joan Ball.
Philanthropic organizations and nonprofits honored were Arkansas Children's Hospital Community Outreach, Cross Compassion Center and Cayce's Charities. Businesses honored were McLarty Ford, The Kitchen Cabinet and O.K. Foods.
Alliance Executive Director Kathy Webb presented an award to Rep. Clint Penzo, R-Springdale, in the Government/Elected Official category for his work in the last legislative session to pass Act 1101, which allows low-income Arkansans access to more fresh food through the Double-Up Food Bucks Incentive Program.
The breakfast was catered by Trio's Restaurant. Event chairmen were Mimi San Pedro and Mary Ann Coleman.
-- Story and photos by Cary Jenkins
High Profile on 10/15/2017