Editorial: Attention, snowbirds

Snowbirds cleaning out the pantry before departing for northern homes are encouraged to leave their unopened, nonperishable food items at their local post offices for inclusion in the 20th Annual Letter Carrier Food Drive climaxing on May 12.

All the donations will be delivered to the Harry Chapin Food Bank and Collier Harvest in Collier County for sharing among established networks of non-profit agencies.

Last year's drive, nicknamed Stamp Out Hunger, netted more than 400,000 pounds and over $2,300.

This year the need is even greater, project officials say. Children who receive free breakfasts and lunches during the school year will be in need during the summer months.

Food items especially needed include canned soup, canned meats and fish, canned vegetables, fruits and juices, boxed goods (such as cereal), and pasta and rice.

Whether the donations come in now, at post offices, or later, at the May 12 grand finale at mailboxes across Southwest Florida, your generosity is appreciated.