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Isn’t it time to spread the love of peanut butter?

By Cristine Struble

HOUSTON, TEXAS - FEBRUARY 20: A volunteer packs peanut butter into emergency distribution boxes at the Houston Food Bank on February 20, 2021 in Houston, Texas. The Houston Food Bank is preparing thousands of emergency food boxes that will be given out to residents in need after winter storm Uri swept across Texas and 25other states with a mix of freezing temperatures and precipitation. Much of Texas is still struggling with historic cold weather, power outages and a shortage of potable water. Many Houston residents do not have drinkable water or food at their homes and are relying on giveaways. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TEXAS - FEBRUARY 20: A volunteer packs peanut butter into emergency distribution boxes at the Houston Food Bank on February 20, 2021 in Houston, Texas. The Houston Food Bank is preparing thousands of emergency food boxes that will be given out to residents in need after winter storm Uri swept across Texas and 25other states with a mix of freezing temperatures and precipitation. Much of Texas is still struggling with historic cold weather, power outages and a shortage of potable water. Many Houston residents do not have drinkable water or food at their homes and are relying on giveaways. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) /
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From that classic school lunch to a spoonful sneaked as a midnight snack, peanut butter is pantry staple in many households. But, did you know that peanut butter is one of the most requested donations by food banks? Move for Hunger is asking everyone to spread a little more love by stocking food banks with peanut butter, and jelly too, this February.

According to Move for Hunger, “Over 42 million Americans face hunger each and every day including 1 in 6 children.” While that feeling might be universally understood, there needs to be more than an empathetic response to the situation.

Over the past several years, food banks have become a vital lifeline in many communities. While the concerns over food insecurity are not new, there has been a great awareness of the important role that these organizations play.

While many companies and individuals has assisted to fill those empty shelves, the demand often outweighs the supply. Too many people lack resources and use those food banks as a way to feed their families.

This February, Move for Hunger is encouraging people to host food drives for peanut butter and jelly. While the classic combination might have many connotations, the pairing is more than just a flavorful combination.

Peanut butter is often requested by food banks because it is “kid-friendly, shelf-stable, and protein-rich.” Even though home cooks might see that jar used in many ways, the versatility that it gives food banks is just as valuable.

In 2021, Move for Hunger hosted “more than 300 food drives across the United States (and collected) over 26,000 pounds of peanut butter and jelly.” With this year’s campaign, the hope is to increase that number and help even more children in need.

The Spread the Love campaign from Move for Hunger can be started by companies, organizations or schools. All the information is available on the charity’s website. And, even if people do not host a big food drive, consider donating some peanut butter and jelly to a local food bank. That gesture of goodwill can spread the love to someone who needs it.

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