Jackson County Times joins peanut butter challenge

By: Shelia Mader

The Jackson County Times joined forces with IFAS and our friends in Marianna who accepted the Peanut Butter Challenge. We encouraged our readers to take part, and they responded generously.

This past Monday morning, Terri Keith, Abbey Payne Smith, and Michael Young stopped by the Times office to collect our box of peanut butter jars, big and small. We don’t have a final weight total yet, but more donations are still coming in, so our total will continue to grow.

Peanut butter might seem like a small item, but it packs a powerful punch when it comes to nutrition. It’s rich in protein, vitamins, and healthy fats, making it a reliable food source for families, especially those with children. Because it doesn’t require refrigeration and has a long shelf life, peanut butter is one of the most valuable items food assistance programs can distribute.

Many of our Jackson County residents rely on SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, and with the ongoing federal government shutdown, the need for additional support has grown even greater. That makes this year’s Peanut Butter Challenge especially meaningful.

We’re proud to have played a small part in an effort that nourishes our neighbors and strengthens our community. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the Times’ challenge and to all who helped make this year’s program such a success.