Local businesses in North Central Arkansas could see an economic hit if the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) continues unfunded due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.
Data from the Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance show SNAP serves an estimated 5,268 people in Baxter, Marion, and Fulton counties, with benefits totaling $810,981 each month. Every dollar spent through SNAP circulates roughly $1.80 in the local economy, meaning the program supports approximately $1.5 million per month in economic activity across the three-county area. That money that would normally be spent at grocery stores and then recirculates through the local economy.
Local grocers have told KTLO, Classic Hits, and the Boot News that while concern is growing for store sales, their primary worry is their neighbors falling in need as the holiday season approaches. Harps stores have set up in-store donation stations to support local food banks at their stores to give the public an avenue to assist those in need…