A major food drive for Western Kenosha County is starting this weekend, and it’s a big deal for local food pantries.
United States Postal Service carriers are joining the National Letter Carriers Stamp Out Hunger food drive. “This is one of our biggest food drives of the year,” said Sharon Pomaville, executive director at the Sharing Center.
This weekend, letter carriers will deliver special food donation bags to every mailbox and PO Box. On Saturday, May 9, residents can fill these bags and place them outside their homes. Postal workers will then collect the donations and take them to local pantries. Donations from Twin Lakes go to the Twin Lakes Food Pantry, while those from Bristol and Salem Post Office will go to the Sharing Center.
In a collaborative effort, the Sharing Center and the Twin Lakes Area Food Pantry are working together this year to boost food collection in rural areas, Pomaville noted.
If you forget to put your donation out on May 9 or do it early, don’t worry! Carriers will still pick it up. You can also drop off food directly at each pantry.
Last year, this food drive brought in about 5 tons of food when need was particularly high. That need continues as many families are still struggling.
Pantries are in need of several staples, including peanut butter, jelly, cereal, canned fruits, tuna, chicken, vegetables, soup, pasta, and rice. These items can really make a difference for those in need.
Recent studies show that food insecurity, amplified by economic pressure from events like the pandemic, remains a pressing issue across the country. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, around 10.5% of American households experienced food insecurity in 2020. This drive helps provide essential support to those affected in our community.
So, if you have the chance, participate in the food drive. Every little bit helps.
