May 12th is the annual Stamp Out Hunger Food
Drive! On May 12th letter carriers will do more than drop off and
collect mail; they’ll be collecting food donations as well. All food donations
will be delivered to Hunger Task Force or the local food bank in your area.
Today we want to answer some questions we’ve heard about
this amazing event so you’re ready for the big day!
Are all locations
participating?
While the majority of post offices and letter carriers will
be accepting donations, this is a voluntary event so not all locations will be
participating. You can always call your local post office to see if they are
taking part in the event.
Where do I put the
food?
Set your non-perishable food in a bag outside by your
mailbox, and make sure to do so well before your mail is usually delivered. You
can set it beside your mailbox, on your mailbox, or in front of your mailbox,
just make sure it is visible.
What if it rains?
Your local letter carrier will be delivering the mail no
matter the weather, so don’t worry about it. Plastic bags are better at
repelling water than cloth bags, so you may want to consider using them in case
of bad weather.
My friend got a
postcard and food donation bag and I didn’t. Does that mean I can’t donate?
Not necessarily. Some post offices may work with local
groups to create marketing materials for the food drive. We still recommend checking
to see if your local area is taking donations.
What types of food
need to be donated the most?
Items that food banks usually are looking for the most
include canned meat, pasta, rice, canned fruits, canned vegetables, soup,
beans, oatmeal, and cereal. Try to donate healthier items when possible.
What should I not
donate?
Any food that is perishable should not be donated such as
fresh fruits and vegetables. Please don’t donate home-canned items as these
cannot be accepted. Do not donate expired food or food that has damaged
packaging, as it will not be allowed to be given away.
Can I donate if I
have a CBU?
Yep, just leave your donation in front of your CBU like you
would any other mailbox!
