More than four tons of food donated in local letter carriers’ food drive

Fewer people will be going hungry in Randolph County because of the efforts of the National Association of Letter Carriers and the people of this area who participated in the Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive May 14.

The 24th year of this NALC event included local letter carriers in Roanoke, Wedowee, Wadley, Woodland, Graham and Ranburne.

People apparently gave from their hearts, leaving 8,763 pounds of non-perishable foods in bags by their mailboxes to be picked up by their letter carriers.

Of this amount the following pounds came from generous residents in these towns: Roanoke-4,535 pounds; Graham-200; Ranburne-673; Woodland-1,495; Wadley-1,060 and Wedowee-800 pounds. About 160 pounds came in after Saturday, which was given to The Lighthouse Soup Kitchens.

Greg Benefield, letter carrier and secretary of the local branch of letter carriers #3384, said the county increased its amount and this was a good turnout this year.

Ed Halsey, president of the local branch, said they always do this the second Saturday in May.

“I’m just pleased that we had the turnout and the support we did this year–a lot better than last year. It is highly, highly appreciated. It shows people’s love of humanity. It will absolutely help with hungry people here,” Halsey said.

When the various agencies came to pick up their food they were very pleased with all the food donated to the local food banks.

The top organizations receiving food donations were the Randolph County Baptist Association, United Way and the Lighthouse Soup Kitchens. Other organizations and churches also received help with their food pantries.

Halsey said he was well pleased and looks forward to next year. The post office does not allot them extra time to do this while they are delivering and picking up mail. He thanks all the mail carriers who participated for going the extra mile.