From Presents to Peanut Butter,

A Gift That Gives Back

In a world where small acts of kindness can ripple into big changes, one young girl in Polk County is proving that age is no barrier to making a meaningful impact. Meet London Brandt, a now ten-year-old community hero who has once again stepped up for the Annual Peanut Butter Challenge, raising 203 jars of peanut butter (more than three times her total from last year) to help feed families in need.

Last year, London made headlines by donating 64 jars of peanut butter to UF/IFAS Extension Polk County’s Challenge. This year, her motivation was deeply personal. “I’m collecting peanut butter in honor of my library friend Mrs. Judy, who passed away,” London shared. “She helped me get a bunch of jars last year, so this year I wanted to keep her memory alive.” That heartfelt tribute sparked a wave of generosity from friends & family.

What Does Donating Mean to You?

Her approach was simple but powerful: London asked for jars of peanut butter instead of birthday presents. “Everyone I know has been helping me,” she said, describing how her excitement for the challenge grew after last year’s success. “Last year was fun, so I was excited to participate again this year.” For London, donating is about more than food; it’s about hope. “So we can help kids who need food,” she explained, emphasizing why this effort matters so much to her.

London’s enthusiasm didn’t stop at collecting jars. She wants other kids to know they can make a difference too. Her advice? “I would tell them to ask their parents how to donate. Save their allowance if they get any so they could buy their own peanut butter to donate. They could also ask friends and family to help.” She hopes the peanut butter will “give them good food” and fill empty bellies. And while she faced no obstacles this year, “everyone I ask has been very willing to jump in and help me”, she knows there are many ways kids can help their communities. “Donating clothes or food. We also do blessing bags that we keep in the car for the homeless full of stuff they can use. Water, snacks, ChapStick, Bibles, socks, hair ties, money, toothbrushes and tooth paste, soap. Anything we can think of that might lighten their load.”

London’s Message

Helping others makes London feel good, but her dreams go even further. “I would build mini houses for all kids and homeless people could live and I would help them get back on their feet. It would be a safe place they could go that had plenty of food and shelter.”

As the 2025 Peanut Butter Challenge continues, London’s story reminds us that generosity doesn’t require grand gestures, just a willing heart. Whether it’s one jar or one hundred, every donation counts. And thanks to London, many more children will go to bed with full stomachs and a little more hope. Her message is simple: “Don’t be scared to help out.”

Want to see how it all began? Check out London’s inspiring story from 2024!

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