PBRMC’s Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive Collects 9k+ Jars of Peanut Butter for SEMO Food Bank

3/30/2023

POPLAR BLUFF, MO -- To help address hunger in our community, and in celebration of National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day on April 2, Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center has donated more than 150,700 ounces and in total, more than 9,400 jars of peanut butter (and other nut butters) to SEMO Food Bank.

All of that peanut butter was donated by PBRMC’S employees, medical staff members, and volunteers during the recent Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive, along with many community members who participated.

According to SEMO Food Bank, nearly 20 percent of residents in the Butler County struggle to put food on the table with a childhood hanger rate of 25 percent. . The Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive was launched to help support individuals who are facing food insecurity, which is a social determinant of health.

“I am so proud of our health system employees for the generosity and spirit to care for our community, by fighting huger. The culture of our facilities employees is driven from not what only we can impact within the 4 walls of healthcare, but extending our purpose and mission for the greater good,” said Rick Naegler, CEO.

Peanut butter is one of the most requested items for food banks because it is highly nutritious and has a long shelf life. Unfortunately, many food banks in America report it is also one of the least donated food items.

“Food drives play an important role in helping us address food insecurity, as they provide our neighbors with access to essential food items that they may not have access to otherwise,” said Camille Peters, SEMO Food Bank’s director of programs and member services.

“Additionally, food drives help bring community members, co-workers, neighbors and friends together to support the organizations in their own communities that are working tirelessly to close the gap on food insecurity. Shelf stable items like peanut butter are always a well-received and much needed source of protein. We appreciate PRRMC for seeing this need and helping fight hunger in its community,” Peters added.

Canned vegetables, fruits, proteins (chicken, tuna, etc.) and soups are always great things to donate.

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