The East Texas Food Bank is excited to kick off its second annual Spread the Love Peanut Butter Drive. Residents of Longview and Tyler can help by donating jars of peanut butter at Fresh, Brookshires, Super 1 Foods, and Chick-fil-A locations in their towns. This year’s drive is part of Hunger Action Month and runs until September 25. The winner, announced on September 29, will be determined by the total weight of donations, making it a fun and competitive event.
David Emerson, the CEO of East Texas Food Bank, emphasizes the importance of peanut butter. It’s a popular item among their pantry partners because it’s non-perishable, appeal to kids, and provides a good source of protein. “We buy about four to five truckloads of peanut butter each year,” he explains. “Last year’s drive produced the equivalent of a full truckload, which is a big deal for keeping supplies up.”
The drive was inspired by similar events at other food banks and has quickly gained traction. Emerson recalls last year’s success, noting that they collected about 44,000 pounds of peanut butter. Tyler claimed victory last year, but Longview is eager to take the title this time.
This drive reflects the generosity of the East Texas community. Emerson notes, “People in this area really care about helping their neighbors. There’s a friendly rivalry between Longview and Tyler, but ultimately, it’s about giving back.”
The goal for this year is impressive—around 38,000 to 45,000 jars. With the community’s spirit of giving, they hope to meet or exceed that goal. For more information on donating, check out East Texas Food Bank.
In a recent survey by Feeding America, 77% of respondents expressed concern about food insecurity in their community, highlighting that drives like this one are more crucial than ever. As food banks face rising demand, community efforts can make a significant impact.
So, if you’re in the Tyler or Longview area, consider joining in the fun and helping those in need.
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