In 2019, Arkansas Extension Homemakers Council began a long term food drive across the state of Arkansas. Each county council was encouraged to collect money or food to go to their local food banks or food pantries. With COVID-19 restrictions in 2020, the food collection and fundraising stalled. During the fall district meetings, State Chair Roberta Shankle encouraged county councils to do a reverse advent calendar. Members were encouraged to collect 16 items over 16 days and donate to their local food pantries.
Scott County Extension Homemakers Council President Betty Overturf asked Debra Miller, Scott County Extension Agent to mail a copy of the reverse advent calendar to members of the Scott County Extension Homemakers council to request and encourage members to participate. Through texting and Facebook, six members and Betty Overturf and Debra Miller, committed to delivering their food to First Baptist Church Waldron to distribute to three local food pantries on December 16, 2020. Lynn Landon, Reita Plummer, and Clara Duncan arranged to have their food picked up or delivered to Betty Overturf prior to December 16. Betty also received the remainder of the food and a cash donation from member Sharon Rice.
The food included 86 items totaling 87.5 pounds. Betty delivered two boxes to Waldron Pentacostal Church of God. Robin Yandell and Janette Garrison received the donation. Two boxes were also delivered to Waldron Methodist Church food pantry with Diane Miller receiving the donation. First Baptist Church Waldron Food Pantry Director Linda Vaughn received one box and the donation of $20 for that food pantry.
