“Stamp Out Hunger” with Hopelink: A Simple Act, A Powerful Impact

Each year, on the second Saturday in May, letter carriers across the country take part in something extraordinary. As part of the National Association of Letter Carriers’ annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive, they collect donations of non-perishable food items along their routes, supporting local food banks like Hopelink and helping ensure neighbors in need have access to nutritious meals. 

Since launching in 1993, Stamp Out Hunger has grown into the nation’s largest one-day food drive. And for our community, it’s a critical moment in the year. 

Last year, Hopelink received 45,336 pounds of food through this incredible effort, stocking our shelves and helping us meet the growing need across North and East King County. 

“Stamp Out Hunger makes a tremendous difference for our five no-cost Food Markets,” said Zachary Hoernlein, Food Warehouse Manager at Hopelink. “These donations come at a time when contributions can start to slow down, and they help ensure our shelves stay stocked as we head into the summer months. We are so grateful to everyone who takes part.” 

That timing is key. As summer approaches, many families lose access to school-based meals, increasing the strain on already tight household budgets. That’s why Stamp Out Hunger plays such an important role, not just in the moment, but in helping us prepare for what comes next. 

“Partnerships like this one with the National Association of Letter Carriers are incredibly important,” said Amanda Lopez-Castañon, Food Programs Director at Hopelink. “Not only do they bring in essential food donations, but they also raise awareness that food insecurity exists in every neighborhood. Events like Stamp Out Hunger remind us that we all have a role to play in supporting one another.” 

The momentum from Stamp Out Hunger helps launch Hopelink’s own seasonal efforts, including our End Summer Hunger campaign which is focused on ensuring children and families have access to food during the months when school meals aren’t available. 

How to Participate 

Getting involved is easy: 

  1. Find your donation bag in your mail. 
  1. Fill it with nutritious, non-perishable foods (no glass jars, expired items, or junk food, please). 
  1. Leave your donation by your mailbox on Saturday, May 9, and your letter carrier will take care of the rest. 

Other Ways to Help 

  • Spread the word! Share information about the food drive with your workplace, faith community, or on social media. 
  • Make a financial gift to support Hopelink’s food programs and help us respond to increasing need. 

Together, we can help more neighbors in our community access the food they need, one bag at a time