I received this in an email today. I'm going to be donating a few jars of peanut butter since I love the stuff so much!
The First Annual Parma Peanut Butter Drive
Parma City Council President Sean Brennan has joined forces with All Faiths Pantry and the Cuyahoga County Public Library System to collect 1,000 jars of peanut butter by December 31. Brennan says he was moved to action by recent news reports pointing to the growing demand at local food banks and the dramatic rise in peanut butter prices. “Peanut butter prices have skyrocketed nearly seventy-five percent this year alone,” Brennan said. “Poverty has grown in our lagging economy and the demand on our food banks is increasing. In the meantime, food donations are lagging behind demand and the prices of food are rising,” he added.
John Visnauskas, founder and director of All Faiths Pantry, which serves Parma, Parma Heights, Brooklyn, Old Brooklyn, and Brooklyn Center, points out that “Peanut butter is food bank gold, a valuable commodity,” adding, “It is the primary source of protein for many needy individuals and families.” In fact, peanut butter is a staple that many families are having a hard time affording, according to Visnauskas.
“Looking back, my mom was a single-parent raising my sister and I. I guess I never really questioned why we ate so much peanut butter growing up. Now I realize that this was the cheapest source of protein mom could afford,” Brennan said. “However, with the price of peanut butter, this staple is becoming out of reach of many needy families in our communities,” he added.
Donors are asked to consider donating a jar of peanut butter or making at least a $5 donation to support the drive. Donations may be dropped off at the Parma City Hall City Council office or at any Cuyahoga County Public Library branch in Parma. Please make checks payable to All Faiths Pantry. Checks may be mailed to “Parma Peanut Butter Drive,” 6611 Ridge Road, Parma, Ohio 44129.
