Saline County residents who qualify for food assistance have two upcoming opportunities to receive USDA commodities through the Central Arkansas Development Council.

The agency has announced distributions on Wednesday, October 21, and Thursday, October 22, 2026, at locations in Bryant and Benton.

At the Bryant Senior Activity Center, distribution begins at 8 a.m. at 6401 Boone Road, Suite 3, in Bryant.

At the Benton Senior Activity Center, distribution begins at 9 a.m. at 1800 Citizens Drive in Benton.

The published notice identifies the two sites and their start times but does not assign a separate date to each location, so residents should confirm the applicable day before traveling.

Participants must meet income guidelines and present identification, with photo identification preferred.

Residents should prepare those documents before arrival to avoid a wasted trip.

The agency's list of possible food items includes shelf-stable milk, pears, raisins, pumpkin, vegetarian beans, peanut butter, macaroni and cheese, grains, canned chicken and frozen chicken drumsticks.

Available items may vary, so households should not count on receiving every product named in the notice.

USDA commodity distributions can help households supplement grocery budgets during a period when basic food expenses remain an important concern.

They may be particularly useful to older adults living on fixed incomes, caregivers and other residents facing tight household finances.

The location names include senior activity centers, but eligibility is determined by the distribution program's stated requirements rather than the venue's name alone.

Those who help an older relative or neighbor may want to share the schedule, check documentation requirements and offer transportation if appropriate.

A short advance call or check of the agency's latest notice is worthwhile because distribution logistics and available supplies can change.

This announcement applies specifically to the October 2026 Saline County distribution and should not be treated as a recurring schedule.

For 501 Daily readers in Benton, Bryant and nearby communities, sharing verified practical information is one simple way to help neighbors access available resources.