March 10, 2025

NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Employees at the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) recently celebrated National Canned Food Month by donating a large amount of non-perishable food items to the Arkansas Foodbank.

National Canned Food Month is celebrated in February and highlights the convenience, long shelf life, and portability of canned foods. It serves as an opportunity to emphasize the importance of stocking up on non-perishable food items in the event of an emergency. This initiative also provided ADEM staff members a chance to give back to the community. “This is a great thing we can do to help citizens in Arkansas,” said ADEM Director A.J. Gary. “They are our friends, our neighbors, and we need to be here for each other, even when we are not in an active disaster. We are here to serve Arkansans in any way possible.”

Canned foods ensure access to vital nutrition, especially in difficult times. Emergencies, natural disasters, power outages, or unexpected situations can interrupt access to regular food supplies, eliminating your ability to prepare a home-cooked meal or travel to the grocery store. Canned foods do not require refrigeration and can be consumed directly from the container, making them a practical, sustainable, and easily accessible option for your family during a crisis.  

ADEM’s contribution to the Arkansas Foodbank totaled 232 pounds, and included canned items such as soups, beans, vegetables, fruits, and more.

“Thank you to the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management for supporting neighbors in need through the Arkansas Foodbank this National Canned Food Month,” said Chief Development Officer Emily Piechocki. “Their generous donation will provide 193 meals to Arkansans facing food insecurity. Emergency Preparedness and addressing food insecurity go hand in hand, ensuring that everyone has access to nutritious meals in times of need.”

The Arkansas Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) is the state’s homeland security and preparedness agency. The agency works to identify and lessen the effects of emergencies, disasters and threats to Arkansas by developing effective prevention, preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery actions for all disasters and emergencies. For additional information, contact ADEM at (501) 683-6700 or visit the website at www.adem.arkansas.gov.