CMC’s Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive Collects Three Tons of Peanut Butter for Local Food Pantries

4/10/2024

To help address hunger in our community, and in celebration of National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day on April 2, Carlsbad Medical Center has donated 4,914 jars of peanut butter (and other nut butters) to Jonah’s House, the Carlsbad Community Kitchen and the Abundant Harvest Food Pantry.

All of that peanut butter was collected by Carlsbad Medical Center and Pecos Valley Physician Group employees and medical staff members during recent Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive. Other local businesses such as Financial Security Credit Union and Native Air also jumped in to help and provided donations as well.

According to the U.S. Hunger Relief Organization, Feeding America, 11% percent of residents in Eddy County struggle to put food on the table. The Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive was launched to help support individuals who are facing food insecurity, which is a social determinant of health.

“Many people right here in our own community are struggling to feed their families,” said Nick Arledge, Carlsbad Medical Center CEO. “I’m so proud of our employees, physicians and friends who showed how much they care by generously donating over three tons of peanut butter for those in need.”

Peanut butter is one of the most requested items for food banks because it is highly nutritious and has a long shelf life. Unfortunately, many food banks in America report it is also one of the least donated food items.

Representatives of Jonah’s House, the Carlsbad Community Kitchen and the Abundant Harvest Food Pantry all reported that they feed hundreds of people each week. All three organizations welcome food donations and need volunteers to keep providing these essential services to our community. Contact information is listed below for anyone interested in donating, learning more or volunteering.

Jonah’s House - 575-887-5904 - 512 W. Stevens
Carlsbad Community Kitchen - 575-885-4174 - 402 S. Alameda
Abundant Harvest Food Pantry - 575-887-1212 - 802 S. Main

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