Macomb Food Program To Participate In Virtual Food Drive

MACOMB COUNTY, MI — The Macomb Food Program is seeking donations as part of a virtual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive, an annual event hosted by the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC).

In previous years, the food drive was held in May and saw postal workers pick up bags of non-perishable, non-expired food items left on porches or near mailboxes, the program said in a news release. This year, the NALC postponed the in-person event due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“The Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive is the largest food drive in the nation, but COVID-19 made it impossible for the event to be held this year,” said Shannon Mallory, program manager for the Macomb Food Program. “This is extremely unfortunate, as our program benefits greatly from the food drive. Last year, we received 250,526 pounds of food valued at $425,894. This year, when demand for our services is increasing, we will miss out on that support.”

The Macomb Food Program said it served 13,714 individuals in May. To meet its community's needs, the program is participating in the virtual Stamp Out Hunger event and asking the public to consider donating.

“Residents of Macomb County have been so generous in their support of our program these last few months,” Mallory said. “Our hope is that they can continue to share their resources and help their community.”

To participate in the virtual food drive, visit the Macomb Food Program’s giving page, insert a dollar amount and select “NALC Virtual Food Drive” from the drop down menu. Donations will help the program purchase food that is then distributed to 60 pantries and hunger relief organizations across Macomb County.

“This isn’t our normal food drive, but these aren’t normal times,” Mallory said. “Any level of support is appreciated and will make a difference for thousands of our friends, families and neighbors.”