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.

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The event will feature friendly competition with prizes for the winning team. Registration costs $5 per player. Participants will receive one raffle ticket for every shelf-stable food item donated. All collected items will support local food pantries.

“The Thanksgiving Pickleball Food Drive Tournament fosters a sense of community alongside fun competition,” said Tringali Park Coordinator Joele Kirkpatrick. “Our players get to do what they love and help local families in need at the same time. This event connects recreation with helping others, making each game a chance to help our neighbors over the holidays.”

The most needed food items include canned fruits and vegetables, boxed stuffing mix, instant mashed potatoes, canned gravy or gravy packets, cranberry sauce, canned soup or chili, canned tuna or chicken, shelf-stable milk or milk alternatives, breakfast cereal or oatmeal, granola bars or snack packs, baby food and formula.

Anyone wishing to donate food without participating in the tournament can drop off items at Tringali Park Recreation Center from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday or from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Registration opens October 15. To register, visit https://tinyurl.com/PaddleForAPurpose25 or call 941-681-3742.

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