Volunteers Come Together at Shepherd Center to 'Stamp Out Hunger'

Recently volunteers joined forces at the Tarpon Springs Shepherd Center to sort through more than 30,000 pounds of donated non-perishables for the nationwide Stamp Out Hunger event.

Although it was a smoldering hot summer day, about 40 volunteers showed support for the effort by sorting the food on a Saturday afternoon. 

Director of the Shepherd Center, Michael Herrera said it was heartwarming to see folks give their time for others.

"Coming together in the spirit of giving is what happened that day," Herrera said.

Herrera said the volunteers ranged from church groups to homeless members of the community.

"It's pretty amazing to see," Herrera said. "People really need to know what a difference this makes."

Stamp Out Hunger is an annual nationwide effort to feed the less fortunate through donations. Mail carriers were to pick up donated goods that were left by mailboxes of Tarponites and drop them off at a local food pantry for use.

Herrera added how important the mail carriers are in the event's success. He said they don't have to participate, but in Tarpon Springs they choose to.

Next on the agenda for the Tarpon Springs Shepherd Center is an effort to mobilize its food pantry.

Currently, those in need must come to the facility to receive assistance. The mobilization would allow volunteers to make the assistance more convenient for those who need it.

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