GADSDEN, Ala.- Despite its high nutritional value and long shelf life, peanut butter remains one of the least donated items at food banks — and now a local hospital is working to change that.
Gadsden Regional Medical Center is asking the community to donate peanut butter as part of its fourth annual “Jars of Love” food drive, helping fight hunger across Etowah County. All donations will benefit the Etowah Community Food Bank, which provides food assistance to families throughout the area.
GRMC CEO Michael Hall says the drive is one of the hospital’s favorite ways to give back to the community each year. He notes that an estimated 17 percent of adults and more than 22 percent of children locally experience food insecurity, which can contribute to serious health challenges.
The Jars of Love campaign begins March 2 and continues through March 27, with a goal of collecting 1,500 jars of peanut butter and other nut butters.
Donations can be dropped off at the 500 Building on the GRMC campus in Marketing Director Will Mackey’s office, as well as collection boxes located in the hospital cafeteria and the Human Resources department. Local businesses may also request a donation pickup.
In addition to food donations, monetary contributions are being accepted and will go directly to the Etowah Community Food Bank.
