An annual initiative to combat food insecurity in Greater Fall River is marking its tenth year, showcasing a thriving partnership between the United Way and the National Association of Letter Carriers. Through the Stamp Out Hunger food drive, residents are encouraged to place non-perishable goods next to their mailboxes for postal workers to collect on May 10th. These donations are then channeled to local food pantries, addressing a critical period when contributions typically decline. This year's campaign involves distributing 59,000 eco-friendly bags across Fall River and Somerset, enabling households to conveniently participate by filling them with essential items like pasta, cereal, and canned goods. Over the past decade, this collaborative effort has amassed over 813,000 pounds of food for those in need.

Since its inception, the Stamp Out Hunger drive has become an integral part of the community's response to food insecurity. According to Kim Smith, the executive director of the United Way of Greater Fall River, one-third of children in the region live in poverty, while one-fifth of adults grapple with insufficient access to food. This drive not only provides much-needed sustenance but also restores dignity and energy to individuals facing challenging circumstances. The collaboration with local institutions such as BankFive, Blount Fine Foods, and Saint Anne’s Hospital/Brown University Health further amplifies the initiative's impact.

Paul Knarr, a letter carrier spearheading the local effort, highlights the unique role postal workers play in identifying and supporting vulnerable families within their daily routes. By interacting regularly with residents, these carriers establish trust and serve as compassionate representatives of care beyond delivering mail. Their familiarity with neighborhoods ensures that assistance reaches those most in need effectively.

While the food drive forms the cornerstone of this humanitarian effort, financial contributions remain vital. Those wishing to support the cause can donate via the United Way of Greater Fall River’s Annual Campaign website at uwgfr.org. Staying informed about ongoing activities is possible through social media channels like @UnitedWayGFR.

This milestone event underscores the importance of community solidarity in addressing persistent issues like hunger. As food insecurity continues to affect countless lives in Bristol County, initiatives like Stamp Out Hunger exemplify how collective action can bring meaningful change. Such efforts remind us that even small gestures, like leaving a bag of groceries by the mailbox, can profoundly impact someone's life.