Northwest Health Fights Food Insecurity with Annual Peanut Butter Drive

4/2/2026

SPRINGALE, Ark. (April 2, 2026) – In celebration of National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day on April 2, Northwest Health is proud to announce the success of its fourth annual Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive. This year, the health system collected more than 4,800 jars of peanut butter to help fight food insecurity across Northwest Arkansas.

“This initiative continues to grow each year and that speaks to the heart of our team and this community," said Juli McWhorter, CEO of Northwest Medical Center — Bentonville. "Seeing thousands of jars collected means more families will have reliable access to nutritious food, and that’s something we’re incredibly proud to be a part of."

The donated peanut butter will be distributed to Feed 479, Northwest Arkansas Food Bank and The Manna Center, helping provide families with a shelf-stable, protein-rich food item. Peanut butter is especially valuable due to its nutritional density, long shelf life and versatility in a variety of meals.

“Food insecurity impacts every part of a person’s health,” said Kory Browning, CEO of Northwest Medical Center — Springdale. “By coming together through efforts like this, we’re not only meeting an immediate need, but also supporting the long-term well-being of our neighbors across Northwest Arkansas.”

Northwest Health's commitment to improving community health extends beyond this annual drive. The organization supports a variety of local programs and partnerships that address social determinants of health, including access to food, housing and essential resources.

"We are grateful for the compassion and commitment shown by our team members and community partners," added McWhorter. "By working together, we can continue to ensure that families across our region have the nourishment they need to thrive."

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