Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center Fights Hunger Through Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive

4/2/2026

Drive collects 1.7K jars for SEMO Food Bank

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 27 thousand ounces, totaling 1,700+ 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 fourth annual Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive, along with numerous businesses such as Walmart, Whitworth Jewelry, First Midwest Bank, PB Housing Authority, and others generously contributing to the cause.

According to SEMO Food Bank, one in six families in southeast Missouri struggle to put food on the table, and one in four children in the area face hunger. Additionally, eight of the ten most food-insecure counties in Missouri are in Southeast Missouri, with Butler ranking 8th. The fourth Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive was launched to help support individuals who are facing food insecurity, a social determinant of health.

“Our annual Peanut Butter Drive has become one of my favorite traditions,” said Clyde Wood, CEO of PBRMC. “Seeing our staff and community come together to collect peanut butter jars for SEMO Food Bank is a reminder of the compassion and generosity that defines us. Each jar helps nourish and gives more opportunity to make a difference for local families in need.”

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’re so thankful to Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center and the community for their generosity through the Jars of Love campaign,” said Joey Keys, CEO of SEMO Food Bank. “Collecting more than 1,700 jars of peanut butter will make a meaningful difference for families facing hunger. It’s a simple item, but one that’s shelf-stable, packed with protein, and easy for families to use. This support will help us serve neighbors across Southeast Missouri with nutritious, dependable food.”

Seeing the community come together to support neighbors in need is inspiring. There are still many ways to help by donating, volunteering, or advocating for hunger relief.

In the last three years, PBRMC has donated 19K+ jars of peanut butter to SEMO Food Bank.

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