Every May, communities across the country unite to combat hunger—starting right at their mailboxes. The National Association of Letter Carriers’ Stamp Out Hunger food drive, held annually on the second Saturday in May, has collected nearly 2 billion pounds of food since its launch in 1993.

While food drives peak during the holidays, hunger persists year-round. Stamp Out Hunger fills a critical gap each spring when food bank donations often decline, but demand remains high. In Vancouver, retired letter carrier Don Young has been a steadfast champion of the effort for years. After more than four decades with the U.S. Postal Service, he played a key role in leading the local drive and remains dedicated to its success.

“When I started, I just couldn’t quit,” Young said. “It’s in my being. If I can help, I’m going to.”

Though he’s stepping back to enjoy retirement, Don plans to pass the torch while staying involved as a mentor. The kindness he has experienced continues to motivate him. “Meeting people on my route and witnessing their generosity—that’s what keeps me going,” he says.

This year, Young is once again pushing for a 100,000-pound goal—a milestone he has seen achieved before. But whether it’s one pound or one hundred, every donation makes a difference in the fight against hunger