The Food Basket recently hosted its biggest food drive, partnering with the National Association of Letter Carriers for the annual “Stamp Out Hunger” campaign. This event, held every May, marks the 33rd year of their collaboration on Hawaiʻi Island.
On a busy Saturday in Hilo, volunteers worked hard to sort through a mountain of donations. This drive usually collects over 30,000 pounds of non-perishable food items like canned goods, rice, and instant noodles.
Duryn Izumo, the Food Basket’s Managing Director, shared how the post office plays a vital role. “They gather food from various routes and bring it to our warehouse. We have volunteers who help unload, sort, and package everything,” she said.
Food drives like this are essential on Hawaiʻi Island, where about 40% of residents face food insecurity. Mary Pedro, President of the Hilo Post Office Union, emphasized the importance of these efforts. “The economy isn’t getting any easier. Families need support, especially in Hawaiʻi,” she noted.
Volunteers also expressed their commitment to helping the community. Ann Ebesuno, Food Basket Board Chair, highlighted an important point: “You never know when you might need help yourself. We’re here for you.” Fua Wilson, a warehouse worker, added, “Don’t feel ashamed. We’re all here to help.”
Statistics show that food insecurity can drastically impact the well-being of families. According to a recent report from the USDA, more than 38 million Americans struggled with hunger in 2021. The need for community support is more crucial than ever.
Collectively, events like these not only gather food but also bring people together. They foster a sense of community spirit and remind us all of the importance of lending a helping hand.
For more insights on food insecurity and community support efforts, visit the USDA’s Food Security report.
