As the new Volunteer Coordinator at Emergency Food Network, I knew the Stamp Out Hunger Letter Carrier Food Drive would be busy, impactful, and inspiring. What I did not fully expect was how deeply personal and community-centered the entire day would feel. Across Pierce County, I watched neighbors show up for one another in ways both big and small…and it reminded me that food drives are about far more than collecting donations. They are about connection.
Here’s five moments that stood out to me:
Working with Theresa, Branch Coordinator for Branch 130 of the National Association of Letter Carriers, reminded me how much this event depends on people who quietly give their time year after year. Since 2021, she has volunteered her personal time to help make the food drive a success.
Working for the post office, Theresa has witnessed firsthand the challenges many families face. During COVID, she was often one of the only people some residents saw all day. Watching her community struggle, adapt, and recover reinforced her belief that one person’s effort can make a difference. As her mother often reminded her, “If you can’t see the light, it might be because you are the light.”
2. At the Parkland Post Office, I watched volunteers greet each other like old friends. Many had worked together at previous Letter Carriers’ Food Drives, and moved food with ease, trust, and camaraderie. It was clear that the years of showing up for their community had created lasting connections.
3. In Proctor, I met a volunteer who had recently moved to the area and signed up as a way to meet people. By the end of the shift, she had formed new connections and found a sense of belonging in her new community. Watching conversations spark between volunteers who arrived as strangers was one of the most meaningful parts of the day.
4. At the South Hill Post Office, Harvey, our Operations Manager, brought his family to volunteer. The atmosphere there felt more like a family gathering than a volunteer shift. Kids helping, laughter between loads, people stepping in wherever needed. Harvey especially loves seeing the Boy Scout troop that faithfully shows up year after year ready to work hard and serve their community.
5. In Fife, I met volunteers who returned for a second year simply because they enjoyed being part of something bigger than themselves. Their enthusiasm was contagious and reflected the pride so many people feel in supporting their neighbors.
This year, I witnessed thousands of pounds of food collected. But even more importantly, I witnessed community in action.