Pocono News Section

Stamp Out Hunger Saturday

Stamp Out Hunger Saturday - Friday, May 7, 2010 at 04:03AM EST

Reported by: Laurie Monteforte
Friday May 07 2010
EAST STROUDSBURG, MONROE COUNTY - When letter carrier Mick Romano delivers mail he often runs into people who struggle to feed their families. He said, "Some people think it's just the homeless that are hungry but it's a lot of children a lot of seniors."

So in addition to picking up mail this weekend he also hopes to pick up food. It's part of the "Stamp Out Hunger" event. Romano said, "T here is a need in our community and we are part of the community."

He and postal workers all over the country are collecting food. Just put some non perishable items in a bag next to your mailbox Saturday. Volunteers will collect the donations.

All of the collections will go to local food pantries like the East Stroudsburg Salvation Army, which is very low on just about everything. For example they need about 200 jars of peanut butter for next month. But they only have one.

Jill brink runs the pantry. She said the need has been overwhelming lately. She explained, "I'm seeing more and more clients that i haven't seen in years and they're coming back."

It's the 18th year for this food drive. Jill said it's become one of the most important events of the year. She explained, "Without their support and without them doing the food driver their would be a lot of families that we would not be able to help."

So she hopes you can help letter carriers like Mick deliver food for families in need. The United Way and Campbell's Soup are helping to sponsor the event. The post office suggests you check the expiration date on your donations. And don't give anything in glass containers.