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New statewide initiative offers struggling families support job access and long term stability

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders calls special election to fill Arkansas Senate District 1 seat after Ben Gilmore resignation

Little Rock, Arkansas – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, in partnership with the White House Faith Office, the Arkansas Department of Human Services, the Arkansas Department of Commerce, and several nonprofit organizations, has officially launched the 10:33 Initiative — a groundbreaking pilot program designed to help Arkansans move from crisis to long-term stability and economic independence.

Named after the Parable of the Good Samaritan found in Luke 10:25-37, the 10:33 Initiative reflects a compassionate approach to public service, rooted in faith, technology, and community partnership. The 12-month pilot will operate in Pulaski, Union, and Pope counties, aiming to assist between 300 and 500 Arkansans through a unique blend of immediate support and long-term career development tools.

Faith and Technology Combine for a Stronger Arkansas

At its core, the initiative leverages Restore Hope’s HopeHub platform, a collaborative case management and data-sharing system already active in 19 Arkansas counties. This platform connects individuals facing crisis situations with community advocates and local organizations. These partners are mobilized to provide short-term support with essentials such as housing, healthcare, and food while also helping individuals chart a course toward lasting self-sufficiency.

“The 10:33 Initiative isn’t another government welfare program; it’s a groundbreaking project carefully curated to give Arkansans a hand up, not a handout,” said Governor Sanders. “By leveraging the power of technology and connecting Arkansans in need with faith-based and community partners willing to help, this initiative will strengthen families and transform lives.”

From Immediate Help to Long-Term Opportunity

Once urgent needs are stabilized, participants are guided toward Arkansas LAUNCH, a digital platform offering job search support, career exploration tools, training opportunities, and employer connections. LAUNCH currently boasts over 16,000 unique users and more than 5,800 job listings from nearly 600 employers across the state.

The combination of HopeHub and LAUNCH offers a full-circle pathway for Arkansans — beginning with critical aid and ending in sustainable employment.

A Unified Front Against Poverty

Several state leaders and community partners have praised the initiative for its forward-thinking, collaborative model.

“This program will transform lives in each of the pilot communities, and we are incredibly excited and honored to support it,” said Janet Mann, Arkansas Secretary of Human Services. “It takes all of us working together in communities across this state to help Arkansans emerge from poverty, attain economic independence, and truly improve their lives.”

Hugh McDonald, Arkansas Secretary of Commerce, echoed the sentiment: “The 10:33 Initiative is a compassionate, forward-thinking approach to serving Arkansans by meeting immediate needs while laying the foundation for long-term economic independence.”

Paul Chapman, Director of Restore Hope, added, “The 10:33 Initiative represents the best of Arkansas – government, faith, and community partners working side by side to help families move from crisis to stability.”

Faith-based organizations also applauded the Governor’s leadership and vision. Chris Tomlin, founder of For Others, stated, “We commend Governor Sanders for her vision and leadership in launching the 10:33 initiative. Her desire to bring the faith community together around vulnerable kids and families is inspiring… Together, we are showing the nation what it looks like to bring hope and lasting change.”

A Blueprint for the Nation

Participation in the 10:33 Initiative is open to businesses, nonprofits, and faith organizations, with multiple ways to get involved. A one-page summary of partnership opportunities is available for interested parties.

Governor Sanders’ Faith-Based Initiatives Office will continue to serve as the backbone of the program, following a successful history of addressing issues such as childhood hunger, foster care, and maternal health through faith-based outreach.

“This initiative will strengthen families and transform lives,” said Governor Sanders, “and help create a model for the nation.”

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