A monumental effort to combat hunger unfolded recently across the Blue Ridge Area, as communities joined forces to stock food pantries for the summer season. On a designated Saturday in May, the Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive successfully amassed an impressive 91,588 pounds of food alongside $4,423 in monetary contributions. This initiative, spearheaded by postal workers and supported by local residents, aims to alleviate food shortages during the peak demand months.
The national drive, organized by the National Association of Letter Carriers, stands as the largest single-day food collection event in the country. During this year's campaign, households within the 25-county service area of the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank left generous donations at their mailboxes. These items were then collected by diligent postal carriers and further assisted by volunteers stationed at various post offices, who efficiently sorted and transported the goods to four regional branches located in Charlottesville, Lynchburg, Verona, and Winchester. Each participating location contributed significantly to the overall tally, with notable collections coming from cities such as Charlottesville, Lynchburg, Harrisonburg, Staunton, Waynesboro, and Winchester, along with additional sources providing extra support.
Through collective action, the community has made a tangible difference in addressing food insecurity. Michael McKee, CEO of the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support received during the drive. The timely arrival of these resources ensures that countless families will have access to essential nourishment throughout the challenging summer period. Such endeavors underscore the power of unity and compassion in fostering resilient communities capable of overcoming adversity.