Recognized throughout the state for its Teal Grill, First Security Bank knows a thing or two about cooking. Now, in time for the holidays, employees and customers of First Security Bank from banking centers across Arkansas have contributed their favorite recipes for a cookbook to benefit Arkansas Foodbank.
In addition to a section featuring Teal Grill recipes, the cookbook features other sections unique to the First Security community. Gold Club members submitted family recipes passed down from generation to generation while Kids Club members submitted recipes in simple terms other kids can follow. Additional sections include everything from appetizers to desserts — for a total of over 1,900 recipes.
More than half a million Arkansans live in poverty and experience hunger, according to the Arkansas Foodbank. In the Foodbank’s 33-county service area, 245,000 people are considered “food insecure,” which means they struggle to put food on the table. Arkansas has the nation’s highest rate of hunger (17.7 percent) and the highest rate of childhood hunger (24.4 percent). The Foodbank serves 23,000 people a week through approximately 300 agencies throughout the Foodbank’s 33-county service area.
“Investing in Arkansas is First Security’s mission,” explains First Security Bancorp Chairman/CEO Reynie Rutledge. “But it’s not just something we say. We believe in what the Arkansas Foodbank does, and we want to do our part to help their mission. We know our customers will also be glad for the opportunity to support the Foodbank’s important work.”
Says Arkansas Foodbank Strategic Relationship Director Shelly Lane, “We’re very excited about First Security Bank adopting us as their cause. For every $1 raised, we provide three meals, and that means a great deal to us.”
Although First Security has previously participated in Golf for Food and Empty Bowls — the Foodbank’s largest fundraisers — this is the first time the organization has held a fundraiser of its own. “This year hunger numbers have increased as contributions from vendors have decreased,” Lane said.” She adds that donations are especially appreciated given the current economic circumstances.
Cookbook pre-orders are now available at all First Security Bank locations throughout Arkansas. Visit www.fsbank.com for a complete listing of banking centers. The cookbooks will be available for pick-up beginning Dec. 15 – just in time for that perfect holiday gift for family and friends. The price is $16 per cookbook or two for $30. Cookbook supply is limited, and they are only available for a limited time, so customers are encouraged to pre-order soon to reserve their copy.
