Austin was up to the challenge. Despite difficult financial times, local residents donated more than 8,000 pounds of food during the annual city wide food drive Saturday.

The event was hosted by the Austin Post Office and the Austin Jaycees, with help from members of Austin High’s National Honor Society.

All proceeds benefit the Salvation Army in a time when food donations are desperately needed.

The drive also collected about 1,000 pounds more food than last year.

It’s efforts like this that make communities great.

Austin letter carriers have been organizing food drives for at least 18 years and their hard work and dedication continues to help those in need.

We commend all of the volunteers and all of those who donated for a job well done, and encourage others to be take part in the future.