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NATCHEZ—Merit Health Natchez has kicked off its annual Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive, which benefits River Assembly Feed the Hungry, First Assembly of God, and Pilgrim Baptist churches.

Church food pantries and is inviting community members to participate in this effort to fight hunger in the local area.

Peanut butter is a sought after item for food banks because of its high nutritional value and long shelf life. Yet, it is one of the least donated items.

The Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive will run through March 24.

“Merit Health Natchez not only supports the patients who come through our doors, we are also committed to supporting better health throughout our community,” said Kevin Samrow, hospital CEO. “Food insecurity has a significant impact on a person’s overall health and wellbeing. Through our Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive, we are working to help fight hunger in our community,” concluded Samrow.

This year, the hospital is excited to announce the Natchez Chamber of Commerce is joining it in its Jars of Love collection drive to help us spread awareness to community members, businesses, and civic organizations that we need and welcome their participation.

The hospital’s goal this year is to collect 2,000 jars of peanut butter or other nut butters.

Currently, peanut butter donations can be dropped off at any of the following locations:

–Merit Health Natchez

–Merit Health Natchez Outpatient Therapy Services, first floor of The Doctors’ Pavilion

–Natchez Chamber of Commerce

If a business or civic organization would like to join our list of collection sites, please contact Kay Ketchings at Merit Health Natchez, 601-443-2534.