The year 2020 has certainly been one filled with challenges.  But unlike the challenges of sickness, social distancing, economic hardships, and hurricanes, the 2020 Peanut Butter Challenge offers helpful, feel-good relief.

Nutty for Peanut Butter
Photo Source: Angela Hinkle

Throughout Florida, the 2020 Peanut Butter Challenge assists families who could really use some help.

Why

Peanut butter is one of the most requested foods for food pantries and food distribution sites.  It’s food-safe at room temperature.  You don’t need electricity to keep it hot or cold.  People like the taste (although creamy texture is usually preferred over crunchy).  Peanut butter can be eaten by itself or spread on crackers or bread or mixed into a smoothie or used to make a satay to go with noodles or chicken.  It’s a quick and easy protein source.  Peanut butter provides other nutrients our bodies need, like fiber and iron.  And, economically speaking, peanut butter easily fits into a modest grocery budget.

When

The 2020 Peanut Butter Challenge runs until the day before Thanksgiving – this year, November 25th.  You still have plenty of time, although why delay such a great opportunity?  Of course, peanut butter makes a great gift to food pantry and distribution sites all year long.

How

Peanut Butter Challenge Champion
Photo Source: Angela Hinkle

UF/IFAS Extension Offices throughout the Florida Panhandle are collection sites for unopened jars of peanut butter.  Bring as many jars as you would like.  An agent in your local Extension Office can also direct you to a variety of other peanut butter donation sites.  Next time you shop, look for a Buy-one Get-one offer.  Donate one and keep one for yourself.  Or just pick up a couple extra jars, knowing you may really be helping a family in need.

Who Benefits

Once all the jars of peanut butter are collected, they are then redistributed to local food pantry and distribution sites.  Families in need going to those sites benefit with an easy, tasty, quick, healthy way to provide for those in their care.  You feel satisfied knowing you found a great way to help a neighbor.

So this year, give the gift of a few jars of peanut butter and conquer the 2020 Peanut Butter Challenge.

 

Angela Hinkle
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