Some local post offices recently collected 3,482 pounds of non-perishable food items to support CROS Ministries as part of the national Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive that took place on May 9. CROS, a leading South Florida nonprofit providing hunger relief, is still in need of another 20,000 pounds of food for the high-demand summer months. 

Some letter carriers from the Boynton Main, Boynton Downtown, and Delray Main post offices had the opportunity to opt-in to their route participating in the drive. The food collected stays local and goes directly to CROS’ food pantries–nine sites throughout Palm Beach County and one site in Martin County. 

“We are most grateful to the letter carriers and local residents who participated and gave to the food drive. Every can of food helps but, unfortunately, it makes up about one-fifth of our need for the upcoming summer months which bring additional challenges. As children are out of school, some families need to find a way to provide 10 extra meals per week per child because they no longer have access to school meals. So, we are continuing to call on our community to help,” stated Ruth Mageria, chief executive officer of CROS Ministries. 

It is estimated that more than 192,000 residents in Palm Beach County struggle with hunger: more than 50,000 of these individuals are children. Given the widening gap between the food secure and those who go hungry, CROS strives to raise money and collect food throughout the year to help close the gap.

“We  are in need of healthy, non-perishable canned or boxed food items. “If we all get together and bring the little that we have, we will make a difference in our community,” added Mageria.

Preferred items include: canned fruit, peanut butter, canned meat, canned soups, mac ‘n cheese.

Since 2020, the number of people seeking food assistance from CROS has surged by 71%. High gas prices, increased cost of living, and changes in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are pushing more people to seek food assistance. As of May 1, nearly 300,000 Floridians lost SNAP benefits due to federal cuts and stricter eligibility requirements. According to the Palm Beach Post, approximately 166,000 SNAP recipients in Palm Beach County are now facing increased food insecurity. 

“It doesn’t matter how much you give, whether it’s food or a monetary donation, every little bit helps.” 

Starting June 1, every donation pledged or received by September 1, 2026, will be matched, up to $50,000, thanks to the generosity of friends of CROS Ministries. 

Non-perishable food items can be dropped off at CROS Ministries’ main warehouse: 3677 23rd Avenue South, #B-101, Lake Worth Beach. Or if you are interested in hosting your own food drive to fight local food insecurity, email browe@crosministries.org. 

For more information on CROS Ministries or to make a monetary donation, visit crosministries.org. 

About CROS Ministries
CROS Ministries has a 48-year legacy of trusted service and leadership in the fight against hunger in Palm Beach and Martin Counties. Its mission is to provide food to people who are hungry and food insecure through community partnerships. With boots on the ground six days a week, CROS works to ensure access to healthy food for all in need. Its programs include community food pantries, hot meal services, and gleaning initiatives that recover fresh produce from local farms. Learn more at crosministries.org.