Your Opinion: Thanks for help with food drive

May 19, 2008 10:07 pm

— Thank you Tifton/Tift County residents! The National Association of Letter Carriers Food Drive for 2008 was a successful one. Over 7,100 pounds of non-perishable food items were collected Saturday, May 10, and were donated to the Tiftarea United Way. This food will stock the shelves of the Food Pantry and the Soup Kitchen for months.
Many people made this possible. Let me attempt to thank all those involved. First, to the residents who participated — we saw both ends of the spectrum in the giving. From the “widow with only two small copper coins” to those blessed and “to whom much is given and much is required” — all gave accordingly — and we thank you. It was truly humbling to see people with so little give so much.
Second, we could not collect this food without the full support of the rural carriers and the clerks that we work with. We could never thank you enough, so please know that your hard work and willing attitude did not go unnoticed.
Third, to Carol Johnson, director of United Way, and her dedicated, hardworking staff of volunteers: You made it very easy to get unloaded and back on our regular schedule. What a team effort to get the food items separated and categorized and put away. Many people will benefit from the time you sacrificed on Saturday afternoon.
Fourth, to our postal management team: We know that in any business, time is money. Thank you for being patient and allowing extra time to accomplish the task. We tried hard to be good stewards of the time.
Fifth (and probably should have been listed earlier), thank you to David Pettis, owner/operator of Chick-fil-a and your staff. The breakfast was great and your generosity was truly appreciated.
We could not have done it without any of the above mentioned. May God bless the efforts of all involved!

Wayne Whittle
Branch 1150
Shop steward
Tifton