Sweetbay Collects Peanut Butter, Jelly for Food Drive

From Sweetbay Supermarket:

The start of summer vacation means many children will go without the regular meals they received at school. To fight summertime hunger, Sweetbay Supermarket stores will collect jars of peanut butter and jelly through June 10 to feed children in need.

The number of jars donated at any Sweetbay store will be delivered to local food pantries that serve summer children’s programs, social service organizations and homeless shelters.

“Peanut butter is a shelf staple and a good source of protein,” explained Carolyn Riggins, Child Nutrition Programs manager of Feeding America Tampa Bay. “One jar goes a long way. We’re pleased that Sweetbay has recognized the increased need for food during the summer.”

More than 28 percent of children in Hillsborough County live in food-insecure households, while statewide, Florida ranks fourth in the U.S. in family hunger. In the west central Florida area served by Feeding America Tampa Bay, there are 250,000 children struggling with hunger.

“Peanut butter and jelly is a staple for kids,” added Nicole LeBeau, Sweetbay spokesperson. “Sweetbay is committed to working with hunger-fighting groups to ensure that children have a nutritious meal all year long.”

To contribute, stop by any Sweetbay Supermarket and donate jars of peanut butter and jelly in the cart located at the front of the stores.