On Saturday, letter carriers in more than 10,000 communities across the nation took part in Stamp Out Hunger- A one day collection of food items from residents, that are then delivered to local food banks.

Despite the less than ideal weather Saturday morning, the postal vehicles began trickling into the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank Network early Saturday afternoon.

Most arrived with dozens of plastic grocery bags filled with food items.

In tough economic times, the need is greater than ever.

Alan Ashlock, who has been a carrier for 23 years, says the rain didn't stop people from donating.

"It makes you feel good. It's extra work, but the more food you collect the more you get into it. It's a good thing to do. We enjoy doing it. It makes a big difference. There's a lot of people out there that really need the food," said Ashlock.

An estimated 13 million children face hunger everyday in the United States.

Since 1993 families have donated more than a half-billion pounds of food to stamp out hunger.

To find out more about donating to the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank Network click on the link below.