KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The National Association of Letter Carriers is gearing up for the annual “Stamp Out Hunger” food drive, a nationwide effort to combat food insecurity. On Saturday, May 9, folks are encouraged to leave non-perishable food items by their mailboxes for letter carriers to collect during their routes.
In East Tennessee, the Smoky Mountain Branch 419 of the NALC is teaming up with the FISH pantry to manage these donations. “You can fill these bags at your mailbox. If you have more items than fit in the bag, you can use a box,” said Marcos Garza, an event sponsor. “No yellow bag? No problem! Use your own.”
Items needed include rice, peanut butter, canned goods, pasta, and more. The goal is to gather thousands of pounds of food. Carlos Jimenez, a local letter carrier, shared that in 1999, they collected 107,000 pounds. Last year, that number dropped to 69,000, but there’s hope to reach former levels again.
A survey by Feeding America shows that over 40 million people face food insecurity in the U.S., highlighting the importance of community efforts like this drive. Letter carriers like Jimenez and Robert Gryder are already brainstorming ways to improve next year’s turnout.
Engaging more volunteers and getting local businesses involved could make a big difference. The drive not only brings in food but also fosters a sense of community.
For more details on how to help, check out partners like Feeding America.
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