Hawkeye Reporter

CommUnity Crisis Services and Food Bank is holding a peanut butter and jelly-themed food drive through February. 

The organization, which has been in operation for more than five decades, is expected to receive more food than ever. Representatives say that the drive's ultimate goal is to promote kindness among neighbors. 

"Year over year, we always see an increase in donations, especially during the pandemic, when the need is greater in our community," Nicole Kilmer, director of marketing and communications for CommUnity, told Hawkeye Reporter. 

But why would a large food drive have peanut butter and jelly as its theme? And what kind of non-perishable food should be donated?

"Nut butters are a great item to donate to the Food Bank – they’re relatively affordable and a wonderful source of protein and other important nutrients," Kilmer said. "Our peanut butter and jelly drive encourage individuals, businesses, organizations, schools, youth groups, and neighborhoods to 'spread the love' to our neighbors."

CommUnity Crisis Services and Food Bank first began as a crisis hotline in 1970 and by 1976 the hotline was available 24/7. The organization expanded and began a food bank in 1978. Its guiding principles include providing emergency financial support, privacy, efficiency, volunteers, empathy and prioritizing its clients.  

CommUnity believes that its clients know how they can optimally be helped. The organization relies on volunteers and donations, having 250 volunteers and receiving 75% of the food they give out in donations. Other events they are holding this year include a pancake breakfast in March and a baby shower in April. 

More information about the drive, such as locations and times to volunteer, can be found at builtbycommunity.org.