The National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC), United Way of Greater Fall River (UWGFR), and co-sponsors Bank Five, Blount Fine Foods, and Saint Anne’s Hospital are joining forces for this year’s Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive on Saturday, May 13th, 2023.
This is a nationally coordinated endeavor that draws on the support of letter carriers and residents to work in tandem collecting healthy, non-perishable food items that are donated to local food banks and pantries. Current economic conditions have exacerbated the need for food assistance within communities across the country, so this heroic effort serves as a critical tool for getting meals onto the table for individuals and families during this difficult time.
The president of Local 51, the National Association of Letter Carriers, Paul Knarr remarks on the importance of this annual event, “As letter carriers we are out in the community six days a week, going to every home in Fall River and Somerset. Because of this exposure to our homes and neighborhoods, we are aware of individuals, families, veterans, elderly, and children that can be food insecure. As letter carriers we are proud to be able to serve as a conduit between those that can help and those that need help in our area. We urge everyone who can help, participate by contributing nonperishable food in order to once again make this food drive a success.”
Residents throughout Fall River and Somerset can easily participate in Stamp Out Hunger as their local letter carriers will disburse a total of 54,000 biodegradable bags in the days leading up to the collection date. Participants are asked to fill the provided bag with items like pasta, cereal, oatmeal, and canned goods, and to avoid items packaged in glass containers. The donation bag should be placed next to the mailbox to ensure pick-up.
Last year residents donated a total of 70,000 pounds of food items during the Stamp Out Hunger drive providing a big boost to local pantries, which is especially helpful during the summer months when youth are unable to access school meals and traditional donations are at a lull. This national effort is effective in both drawing attention to individuals experiencing food insecurity and offering support to those in need, and demonstrates the impact achieved when communities collaborate to help their neighbors.
A press conference will be held on Tuesday, May 9th, 2023 at 8:15am at the Fall River Post Office located at 2 Government Center to discuss the initiative and build awareness for Stamp Out Hunger 2023.