Union members to stock up local food pantries across the nation
Get ready to Stamp Out Hunger tomorrow!
Over the last 24 years, the Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive has collected more than 1.5 billion pounds of food for local food pantries nationwide. It’s an incredible community service event led by National Letter Carriers (NALC) and United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) union members. Volunteers from across the labor movement also pitch in to help collect and drop off food- it’s truly a testament to the impact union members have in their communities. This is what working people standing together looks like (see video below)
The Letter Carriers are uniquely suited to head up such a large scale food drive- they are the only group in the country to visit every home and business daily. Their efforts to help folks donate to local food pantries have helped countless Americans put food on the table for their families. It’s been a rewarding experience for union members, as well:
“Volunteering our time and effort to do what we can to help families on our routes struggling with hunger is something that every NALC member can be proud of,” NALC President Fredric Rolando said. “It’s been a fantastic 25 years, and we’ve collected more than 1.5 billion pounds of food for local food agencies across the country. That’s who we are. It’s in our DNA. America’s letter carriers, delivering hope.”
UFCW members recently partnered with NALC to raise awareness about the food drive:
“From the food processing and packing facilities to your local grocery store, UFCW members help to keep America’s families fed with safe and nutritious food,” said UFCW International President Marc Perrone at today’s kickoff event. “Unfortunately, our jobs also allow us to see countless customers we serve struggle to put food on their tables. The America we believe in, that I know you believe in, is one where no family or person should go hungry. This food drive truly supports America’s hard-working families and we are so proud to be a part of it.”
The annual event is always held on the second Saturday of May. Partners also include United States Postal Service, United Way, and the AFL-CIO. Check out the rich history of the Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive here.
How does it work? From our brothers and sisters at NALC:
On the second Saturday of May, just set out your non-perishable food well before your letter carrier’s normal pick-up time. The earlier the better! Note that he or she will be delivering and collecting mail as usual, on top of collecting food donations, so that pickup time could be slightly later than usual. Your letter carrier might also have helpers. A good rule of thumb is to have the bags by your mailbox by 9 a.m.
How do I know whether my local letter carrier or post office is taking part in the Food Drive?
Just call your local post office and ask to speak to your local food drive person.
Do I need to use a special bag?
No! No special bags are needed. Paper is sturdy and tends to hold more food, while plastic holds up better if it gets wet (in the rain, etc.). Cloth bags or boxes are also fine. So it’s your choice. And most bags and boxes can be easily recycled. Your letter carrier will gladly take anything you leave out!
More questions? Check out NALC’s handy FAQ page on the food drive. Last year the drive collected a record 80.1 million pounds of food – spread the word and donate tomorrow to help break that record!
AND please help spread the word about this amazing community service event!
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