Gov. Gregoire urges donations to food banks

For Immediate Release: May 9, 2008

OLYMPIA � Gov. Chris Gregoire is asking Washingtonians to open their pantries to support the food drive sponsored by the National Association of Letter Carriers on Saturday, May 10, saying even a few cans of food coming from many donors can feed a lot of hungry kids and babies.

�This is one day dedicated to replenishing food banks and shelter pantries across the country,� Gregoire said. �With the recent rise in food prices hurting those most in need, I urge Washingtonians who can to give generously and to remember that all too many of our neighbors are in need of a helping hand not just this weekend but every week.�

In its 16th year, the �Stamp Out Hunger� food drive is the largest one-day food collection event in the country. Bob James, president of the state association of letter carriers, says that last year more than 73 million pounds of non-perishable items were collected nationally.

�Each year, we�ve been gratified by the response of our patrons. Every single donation is appreciated and put to good use,� James said. �We are especially in need of such items as baby formula, canned tuna and other sources of protein such as peanut butter.�

Public employees recently rose to the challenge to help those in need. Twenty-three city, county and state agencies participated in the 2008 Well Fed, Well Read food and book drive for Thurston County families. The drive collected 18,000 pounds of food and more than 10,000 new and used children�s books.

There are 320 food banks in Washington state, many of which are experiencing short-term shortages due to increased demand.

The governor�s office will soon launch a web site with links to a directory of food banks around the state and upcoming food drives.
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