PONTOTOC, Miss. (WTVA) – An electric association is asking the community to help meet a critical need across area food pantries.

Pontotoc Electric Power Association (PEPA) is currently holding its annual Peanut Butter and Jelly Drive.

According to organizers, local food pantries often report receiving few donations of peanut butter and jelly, making the drive an essential effort to supply shelf-stable staples to families in need.

“We have over 20,000 customers, and we’re so grateful for each and every one of them,” said Jennifer Johnson, PEPA’s manager of human resources. “This is just a way that Pontotoc Electric can give back to our communities.”

The drive runs through Sept. 30. Community members can drop off donations at two locations:

• Pontotoc Office: 12 South Main St., Pontotoc
• Bruce Office: Newburger Street, Bruce

The collection effort is part of PEPA’s eight-year tradition of “Gratitude Projects,” which have also included drives for foster children’s backpacks and school supplies for local students.