'Stamp Out Hunger' food drive comes at critical time for local students

Saturday, May 13, 2017

NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. (WRDW/WAGT) -- Postal Workers throughout the CSRA picked up canned goods along with mail as part of the nationwide 25th Annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive that took place nation wide Saturday.

Miguel Valdez volunteered at the North Augusta Post Office unloading the canned goods from the postal trucks and into a large semi.

"Just that one meal makes a huge difference in your life," Valdez said.

This was Valdez's first time as a volunteer for Golden Harvest and he said he was glad to donate his time and see his community donating food to those who need it most.

"It's going to have a big impact because it's going to show that there are others that are out there that care for what you are going through," Valdez said.

Golden Harvest Food Bank's Carrie Jones said this is a critical food drive, especially for the summer months. Donations typically drop this time of year, but the demand rises with children out of school. Jones said this helps them fill the local pantries so no one is left with an empty stomach

"It breaks my heart," Valdez said.

Valdez said he has experienced times without food.

"I know what it is like to go through that struggle. I didn't quiet reach to homelessness, but I know how it is to need a plate and to receive that and that's what we are here," Valdez said.

Valdez isn't alone. Over 60% of Georgia schools have free and reduced lunches, including every single school in Richmond County, which leaves students who rely on school meals hungry during the summer.

11-year-old Austin Jenkins dropped his donation off personally today.

"It makes me sorta happy knowing you are giving something to somebody who doesn't really get it," Jenkins said.

No matter how you donate, Valdez said it makes a difference.

"It's always been in inside of me, and I'm glad I have the opportunity to go out now and return the favor," Valdez said.