A fresh culinary destination, The Yard, has recently gained popularity among students at Arkansas State University. After months of partial operation, the restaurant fully opened its doors last weekend with a special event aimed at supporting the local community. The owners, Casey and Dan Johnson, organized a food drive to benefit the Food Bank of Northeast Arkansas. This initiative not only provided entertainment and dining experiences for attendees but also resulted in significant contributions to those in need.

The Yard's recent full opening marked an important milestone for the establishment. Recognizing the importance of giving back, the Johnsons decided to leverage this occasion to make a positive impact. Customers were treated to live music while enjoying their meals, all while contributing to a noble cause. Ten percent of the sales from the event were donated directly to the food bank, demonstrating the restaurant's commitment to social responsibility.

The success of the food drive was evident in both the monetary and physical donations collected. Through the collective efforts of patrons and volunteers, 280 pounds of canned goods were gathered, providing 350 meals for those facing food insecurity. Despite being planned on short notice, the event benefited greatly from the enthusiastic participation of university students, particularly members of local sororities and fraternities who volunteered their time.

Looking ahead, the Johnsons are optimistic about turning this one-time event into an annual tradition. By fostering a spirit of community engagement, The Yard aims to continue supporting local food security initiatives. This effort has not only strengthened ties between the university and the broader Jonesboro area but also highlighted the power of collaboration in making a meaningful difference.