Local Leaders Unite to Combat Food Insecurity

“The people of Pine Bluff are one of its greatest resources. You care about this city. You’re invested. You want to see it thrive.”

Tomekia Moore, Executive Director of the Arkansas Community Action Agencies Association (ACAAA), was one of two panelists at a community meeting focused on reducing food insecurity in Jefferson County. A native of the area and a proud product of local schools, Moore emphasized the importance of empowering residents to lead local solutions.

Through her leadership at ACAAA, Moore oversees a statewide network of 15 community action agencies that serve all 75 counties in Arkansas. From childcare and workforce development to housing and now food and nutrition security, the agencies are on the frontlines of systemic change.

One of the newest initiatives Moore introduced was Harvesting Hope, a partnership with the University of the Ozarks. Launched in Pine Bluff, this effort builds the capacity of local congregations to combat food insecurity while promoting health and sustainability.

“We're not just handing out food,” Moore explained. “We're creating mobile markets that bring fresh produce directly to neighborhoods. People get to shop with dignity, choosing what they need, just like in a store.”

Representing the private sector, Tiffany Curengton of Super 1 Foods underscored how local businesses are vital players in the fight against hunger. A lifelong Pine Bluff resident and the first store director from the area for the company, Curengton spoke passionately about her store’s daily partnerships with food pantries and its long-standing relationship with the Arkansas Food Bank.

“We work with food pantries daily,” she said. “If there’s a need—whether it's for a youth camp, a shelter, or a senior group—we try to meet it. And I always tell people: don’t hesitate to reach out.”

Curengton also highlighted the company’s commitment to uplifting local producers, including efforts to help Arkansas-based brands like “I Use Products” get their goods on store shelves. Additionally, she pointed to corporate programs that allow nonprofits to apply for grants or food donations directly through store channels.

The message was clear: solving food insecurity in Jefferson County will require everyone—government, nonprofits, businesses, and everyday citizens—to work together. And with the level of passion and commitment shown at this event, the foundation for that collaboration is already strong.