Jacksonville: Spread the word: Peanut Butter Challenge kicks off in Duval County
The Floridant/10246991

~ This October, the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Extension is hosting its 2023 Peanut Butter Challenge, and Duval County is competing. The challenge encourages community members to donate jars of peanut butter to their local Extension office or FAMU Cooperative Extension by Oct. 31. The donations will then be given to local food pantries, backpack programs and other partners in the fight against food insecurity.

"The peanut butter challenge is a great way to donate for a cause and fight hunger," said Stephen Jennewein, UF/IFAS Extension Duval County agriculture and natural resources agent and Peanut Butter Challenge coordinator. "Many citizens in our local area are struggling with providing for their families. This act of kindness can help support those families in need. We are excited to be able to be that support and help for families in our community."

The UF/IFAS Extension Duval County office, located at 1010 N. McDuff Avenue, will be collecting donations of unopened, unexpired peanut butter jars of any size. Other community partners already signed on to accept donations include the Ed Ball Building, City Hall Employee Services, and Main Library.

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In addition to its nutritional value and easy collectability, peanut butter was originally selected as the donation item as a way to highlight Florida's peanut production which contributed $114 million to the state economy in 2020. The competition began in the Panhandle counties in 2012 and spread statewide in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and a subsequent rise in food insecurity.

"It's always heartwarming to hear the stories of community involvement," said Jennifer Bearden, UF/IFAS Extension Okaloosa County agriculture agent and co-organizer of the 2023 event. "This event has always relied on community support, and the competition between counties is all with a positive message at its heart." Partnerships are also welcomed with organic competitions often springing up in schools, clubs, office buildings and more. To join or partner with Duval County's collection this year call 904-255-7450.

The Florida Peanut Producers Association (FPPA) and Florida Peanut Federation (FPF) have partnered with the project for years contributing totals distributed to food pantries in those regions as well as community donations from across Florida. For more information visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/peanutbutter or follow along on social media @duvalagriculture .

This October start giving season early by participating in UF/IFAS Extension's 2023 Peanut Butter Challenge throughout Duval County!

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