Every October, the Peanut Butter Challenge sweeps through Charlotte County, turning jars of peanut butter into a tool for fighting hunger.
UF/IFAS Extension leads the charge, collecting unopened, unexpired jars for local food pantries from October 1 to October 31, 2026. It’s all about getting ahead of holiday-season food insecurity, and peanut butter’s a splendid choice: full of nutrients, lasts on the shelf, and loved by many.
If you want to pitch in, just drop your jars at one of these locations:
Centennial Park Recreation Center, 1120 Centennial Blvd., Port Charlotte
Mid County Library, 2050 Forrest Nelson Blvd., Port Charlotte
Englewood Charlotte Public Library, 3450 N. Access Road, Englewood
Punta Gorda Charlotte Public Library, 401 Shreve St., Punta Gorda
Last year, people in Charlotte County alone donated 1,356 pounds. That’s a lot of sandwiches and snacks for families who need them. But the impact stretches farther. Statewide, groups like the Florida Peanut Producers Association and the Florida Peanut Federation match the pounds collected in every county, doubling what local pantries get and helping families across Florida.
If you have questions or need details, check out the Charlotte County Government News Portal or call coordinator Holly Bates at 941-764-4340. Every jar makes a difference.
