Stamp Out Hunger 2024: Join America's Largest One-Day Food Drive to Fight Community Hunger
On May 11, 2024, the Stamp Out Hunger initiative will once again take place, continuing its mission to combat food insecurities that affect communities across the United States, including the Greater Houston Area.
Launched by the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) in 1993, the Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive has since grown to become the nation's largest single-day food drive. The idea was sparked in 1991 when certain visionary leaders, including NALC President Vincent R. Sombrotto, recognized the potential to mobilize letter carriers' extensive community presence for a national cause.
Since then, the impact has been immense. In its inaugural year, the drive collected more than 11 million pounds of food from over 220 union branches. Fast forward 30 years, the initiative has gathered approximately 1.9 billion pounds of food, providing much-needed support to food banks which typically run low on supplies after the holiday donation season.
Participation in the event is simple. On the second Saturday in May, individuals are encouraged to leave non-perishable food donations in a bag near their mailbox. The letter carriers, doing double duty, will collect these donations along their regular routes and ensure they reach local food pantries.
Non-perishable foods suitable for donation include canned fruits and vegetables, canned meats, rice, peanut butter, beans, pasta, and cereals. Remember, every little bit helps to stamp out hunger in America.
Participation is voluntary, and those interested may also donate through local food banks. To donate towards support for the Houston community, visit houstonfoodbank.org, which in turn supports many organizations and nonprofits across the Greater Houston Area.
Together, let's continue this tradition of community service and make a tangible difference in the fight against hunger.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
