National Letter Carrier Food Drive on May 11

Lee County has traditionally ranked among the best counties in the United States for participating in the annual National Letter Carrier Food Drive with the highest contribution per capita.

This year the drive will be held on Saturday, May 11. It is the largest single day drive in the nation.

Individuals and families are asked to put unopened food items by their mailbox on that day so letter carriers and volunteer drivers can collect it. Food collected will be distributed by local food banks such as Harry Chapin Food Bank and Midwest Food Bank in addition to food pantries managed by local food agencies. 

 All food collected is distributed to the participating agencies at no cost. Virtually any kind of food may be donated in unopened, non-breakable containers. Items especially in need are peanut butter, tuna, rice, beans, and canned meats, fruits, vegetables, and soups.

Volunteers are needed to both help letter carriers collect the food and help sort the food into categories  once it has been collected. Volunteers are needed for varying time shifts between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.

•  Individuals who can help letter carriers by picking up food should contact Christine LoConte at United Way, , 239-4333-7567, Christine@UnitedWay.org • Individuals who can help with sorting food should contact Laurie Stanley at the Harry Chapin Food Bank, 239-334-7007 x 120,  Lstanley@hcfb.org