National Day May 9 Community

Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day

On Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day, we listen louder, learn more, and make sure no one feels invisible.

Why it matters

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JOIN THE CAUSE

Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day is an opportunity to help those in need across America.

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━━━━ FAST FACTS ━━━━
WHEN
Second Saturday in May
ORIGIN
Started in 1993 by the National Association of Letter Carriers
STAT
In 2022, 80 million pounds of food were collected
STAT
Over 1,000 local food banks benefit from the donations
VIBE
Community-focused and compassionate spirit
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THE STORY

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Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day takes place on the second Saturday in May, a product of a unique collaboration between the National Association of Letter Carriers and various food banks nationwide. Since its inception in 1993, the event has grown significantly, becoming the largest single-day food drive in the United States. Postal workers collect non-perishable food items left by residents near their mailboxes, helping to alleviate hunger in their local communities.

The initiative has seen remarkable results over the years. In 2022 alone, it managed to collect an astounding 80 million pounds of food, benefiting countless families facing food insecurity. Each contribution, no matter how small, plays a crucial role in addressing hunger and ensuring that food banks can provide for those in need. As the event approaches, communities come together to raise awareness and encourage participation.

In addition to the physical donations, Stamp Out Hunger serves as a platform to raise awareness about food insecurity in America. According to Feeding America, more than 38 million Americans, including 12 million children, live in households that are food insecure. By participating in this food drive, individuals and families can help combat this pressing issue and foster a spirit of community support.

To join the effort, residents are encouraged to gather non-perishable food items and place them in a bag near their mailbox on the designated day. Local postal workers will collect these items during their regular mail delivery. Additionally, many communities host events leading up to the food drive to engage residents and amplify the impact of their efforts. Together, we can stamp out hunger one can at a time.

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WORTH KNOWING

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#1
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Get Involved

Join local efforts to collect food.

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Pack Donations

Sort and pack food items with your family.

#3
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Spread the Word

Share on social media to raise awareness.

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Volunteer

Help at local food banks and shelters.

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AROUND THE WORLD

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United States

The primary focus of the food drive.

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Canada

Similar initiatives exist for food security.

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United Kingdom

Community food drives are also popular.

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Australia

Food banks and drives help the needy.

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Germany

Promoting food donations to support the local population.

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India

Efforts to combat hunger are ongoing.

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DID YOU KNOW?!

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TRIVIA

First Year
The first Stamp Out Hunger Day was held in 1993.

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National Participation
Over 10,000 cities participate annually.

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Food Bank Impact
Food banks receive over 1 billion pounds of food per year.

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Volunteer Efforts
Millions of volunteers help collect and distribute food.

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Letter Carrier Role
Postal workers play a crucial role in the collection process.

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Community Spirit
The event fosters a strong sense of community.

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Global Hunger
Food insecurity is a global issue, affecting millions worldwide.

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READ MORE

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NON-FICTION

The Hunger Games

Suzanne Collins

A dystopian novel highlighting issues of scarcity and survival.

COOKBOOK

Feeding America

Various Authors

A collection of recipes and stories from food banks.

CHILDREN'S

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Eric Carle

A beloved children’s book that teaches about food.

SELF-HELP

Food for Thought

Dr. John Smith

Explores the impact of food on mental health.

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PAIR IT WITH

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MAIL YOUR DONATIONS

Leave food near your mailbox.

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SHARE A MEAL

Invite neighbors to share food.

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GET ACTIVE

Participate in community events.

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SPREAD KINDNESS

Offer help to those in need.

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Join the Food Drive

Participate in Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day and help your community by donating food items this May.

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How to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day.

  • Share one reputable resource with your network.
  • Donate to a patient-led organization working on stamp out hunger food drive.
  • Check in on someone you know who's living with it.
  • Book the screening or appointment you've been putting off.
  • Listen more than you speak.

Celebration ideas by audience

For families

Have the real conversation at the table — stigma-free, no lecture.

For kids

Answer questions honestly and age-appropriately.

For couples

Check in with each other's appointments, screenings, and follow-ups.

At the office

Share vetted resources and encourage people to use their benefits.

At school

Bring in an expert, survivor, or advocate to speak for a class period.

In your community

Run a donation drive, a walk, or a listening session for those affected.

On your own

Reach out to someone you know is living with it. Ask how they're doing for real.