Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center Collects 8k+ Jars of Peanut Butter to Help Alleviate Hunger

4/2/2024

POPLAR BLUFF, MO, April 2, 2024 – 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 130,000 ounces, totaling 8,253 jars of peanut butter (and other nut butters) to SEMO Food Bank.

The various departments of PBRMC earnestly embraced the peanut butter drive initiative, engaging in friendly competition amongst themselves. Notably, our orthopedic clinic made a significant contribution by donating more than 2,000 jars independently. Plus, our medical staff members made a noteworthy contribution to the peanut butter drive initiative, reflecting their commitment to our community's well-being.

Additionally, our community demonstrated remarkable support, with numerous businesses such as 10Box, Colton's, First Midwest Bank, and others generously contributing to the cause.

According to SEMO Food Bank, 1 in 7 families in southeast Missouri struggle to put food on the table and nearly 20% of children go hungry. Additionally, five of the ten most food insecure counties in Missouri are in Southeast Missouri, with Butler ranking 11th. The second Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive was launched to help support individuals who are facing food insecurity, which is a social determinant of health.

"We take immense pride in the dedication and compassion of our healthcare staff, who tirelessly combat hunger and uplift our community. The ethos of our facility's team is defined not only by our impact within healthcare walls but by our commitment to a broader purpose, serving the greater good,” said Clyde Wood, 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.

“We are blown away by the generosity of the PBRMC community yet again,” said Sarah M. Garner, Southeast Missouri Food Bank’s chief advancement officer. “These jars of peanut butter will mean so much to the people we serve. It is amazing to see the support for our neighbors facing hunger; we are so very appreciative.”

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

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