NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - Communities in Arkansas continue to step up to support one another during the longest federal government shutdown in U.S. history.

At North Little Rock schools, the Wraparound Services Program has been providing critical resources to students and families throughout the semester. But as the shutdown continues, the need has only grown.

Coordinator Sarah Roberson said her team has been working twice as hard in recent weeks to meet the rising demand for essentials.

“Not only have we seen an uptick in needs, but we’ve also seen an uptick in anxiety,” Roberson said.

While clothing and school supplies are part of the program’s mission, food insecurity has become one of the most urgent challenges for many families in the district.

“We have about 30 families that are

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