A successful food drive is held at a new restaurant close to Arkansas State University

Jonesboro, Arkansas – Last weekend, The Yard, a brand-new restaurant that is growing in popularity among Arkansas State University students, used its recent full opening to have an influence on the community.

After months of only partially operating, the restaurant is finally completely functioning and held a food drive event to benefit the Food Bank of Northeast Arkansas.

Casey and Dan Johnson, the company’s owners, viewed this as a chance to give back to the community that helps their business thrive.

“We donated 10 percent of our sales back to the food bank, and customers came out to eat and enjoy live music,” said Casey Johnson, co-owner of The Yard.

In addition to providing a fun time, the event raised a significant amount of money.

“We were able to provide 350 meals to the hungry and donate 280 pounds of canned food thanks to the teamwork,” Johnson added.

Despite the short notice, the food drive was a huge success thanks to the assistance of students from nearby fraternities and sororities.

Johnson said he hopes to make this an annual event in the future.

In addition to assisting regional food security initiatives, The Yard’s project promotes a feeling of community among Jonesboro residents and Arkansas State University students.