National Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day is observed on the second Saturday of May and takes place on May 13. It is the largest food drive in the country and takes place in more than 10,000 cities and towns. One in eight Americans face hunger every day and we want to remind everyone that they can help with this wonderful initiative. The Stamp Out Hunger Donor Drive aims to feed the hungry in the U.S., and as always, with your help, we can and we will.
History of Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day
National Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day is conducted by the National Association of Letter Carriers (N.A.L.C.). The drive was started in October 1991 as a trial program and took place across 10 cities in America. It was highly successful and has continued every year since. The initiative was formed by a union wanting to give back to those in need, whether it be by donating funds to a charity, collaborating during times of disaster, or protecting victims of calamities and crime.The date for the drive was later moved to the second Saturday of May. The N.A.L.C. decided that the best time of year for the food drive would be in the late spring. This was because food banks and pantries ran out of food by May as donations decreased after Thanksgiving and Christmas.It was the postmen who mostly saw the obstacles that communities faced. Thus, on this day, the postal carriers both deliver mail and collect food donations. As they deliver orders, bills, and postcards, people get to help out by filling their mailbags with non-perishable food donations.One billion pounds of food have been dispatched over the last two decades. The mailmen deliverers representing the N.A.L.C. receive support from rural letter carriers, other messenger employees, and volunteers. In 2010, The Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive was awarded numerous badges, which include two Presidential Certificates of Achievement.
Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day timeline
A pilot drive is held in 10 cities as a trial initiative and is a massive success.
The N.A.L.C chooses to appoint every second Saturday in May as National Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day.
A revamped food drive is organized by the N.A.L.C. with the goal to have at least one branch from all 50 states participate.
The food drive celebrates its 25th anniversary.
Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day FAQs
What is special about non-perishable food?
Non-perishable foods, such as canned goods and dried fruit, have a long shelf life and don’t require refrigeration to keep them from spoiling.
What percentage of Americans use food banks?
One in seven people in our nation utilizes our network of food banks.
Who refers you to a food bank?
Professionals such as social workers, health visitors, and doctors must refer people to a food bank for them to receive a voucher that can then be exchanged for food.
How to Observe Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day
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Donate what you can
If you live in the U.S., you can observe this holiday by choosing to donate food. There are many shelters and food banks to choose from. Google a list of places in your area and drop off some food parcels.
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Get your friends involved
Ask your friends to collect non-perishable food. This will allow you to collect more food and you can donate more than you initially planned. This will also spread awareness about the cause.
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Tell people about this day
Get everyone involved and let them in on what you are doing. Post about this day on social media. You can also print flyers and hand them out in your community.
5 Interesting Facts About National Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day
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It was a pilot program
This trial began in 10 cities in the U.S. and is now celebrated in all 50 states.
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It was a large-scale success
Over 11 million pounds of food was collected in the first year.
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The N.A.L.C is a widespread association
The National Association of Letters Carrier consists of over 277,000 members.
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Anyone can be a part of it
Simply fill a grocery bag or more with non-perishable food and set it by your mailbox the morning of the national holiday.
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It changed platforms
In 2021, rather than leaving food beside the mailbox, people could only donate through the website.
Why Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day is Important
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Sharing is caring
It’s an opportunity to show kindness and empathy to our fellow citizens. Donating food on this day will surely help many struggling Americans.
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Everyone has a chance to donate
Every person can join and contribute to the betterment of society. It also helps to know the donation is for the common good of the community.
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It’s easy and convenient
This holiday is made accessible to everyone. All you need to do is fill a bag and drop it by your mailbox.
Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | May 14 | Saturday |
| 2023 | May 13 | Saturday |
| 2024 | May 11 | Saturday |
| 2025 | May 10 | Saturday |
| 2026 | May 9 | Saturday |
