Commonwealth Health Moses Taylor Hospital and Regional Hospital of Scranton Have Donated More Than 900 Jars of Peanut Butter

3/29/2023

To help address hunger in our community and in celebration of National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day on April 2, Commonwealth Health Moses Taylor Hospital and Regional Hospital of Scranton have donated more than 900 jars of peanut butter (and other nut butters) to CEO Weinberg Food Bank and Bread Basket of NEPA.

All of that peanut butter was donated by Moses Taylor Hospital and Regional Hospital employees, medical staff members, volunteers and The Wright Center during the recent Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive. According to Feeding America, 12.7 percent of residents in the Lackawanna 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.

“With the rising cost of basic life necessities such as food, more and more individuals and families are reaching out for help just to get by. Local food banks are struggling to keep up with this increasing demand,” said Greg Drapek, Commonwealth Health Moses Taylor Hospital and Regional Hospital of Scranton board member. "The success of the Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive will not only provide a helping hand to so many in need, but is also indicative of the kindness and long standing support of our community that has been the hallmark of our employees.”

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. Other foods needed by food banks include non-perishable items such as cereals, pasta, and canned foods such as soups, vegetables, beans or fruit.

People can support CEO Weinberg Food Bank and Bread Basket of NEPA by volunteering their time, hosting a food drive, donating food and/or money.

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