Hunger doesn’t take a holiday, and neither do we. Did you know that 1 in 8 people in Northern New Mexico face food insecurity? Together, we can change that—one busload at a time. Hutton Broadcasting, Albertsons Market, and the Santa Fe Community College Foundation are joining forces to combat student hunger with the “Stuff the Bus” campaign, running December 6–16, 2024. The campaign wraps up with a special event on December 16th at Albertsons Market on Zafarano, where the community can help stock the two SFCC vans with non-perishable food and essentials.
What is Stuff the Bus?
For many families, the holidays are a time of celebration—but for those experiencing food insecurity, they can be a season of stress. “Stuff the Bus” is a community-wide effort to combat food insecurity in Santa Fe. Hutton Broadcasting and its Santa Fe radio stations are inviting listeners to donate non-perishable food items to benefit the SFCC Food Pantry, helping students and their families during the holiday season. Prefer to let the experts shop? Cash and check donations will also be accepted.
Looking Back: Last Year’s Success
The inaugural 2023 “Stuff the Bus” food drive in Santa Fe was a resounding success, showcasing the city’s generosity and community spirit. During the event, donors contributed an impressive 1,452 pounds of food—equivalent to approximately 5,800 meals—along with $735 in cash donations, all benefiting The Food Depot.
Sherry Hooper, Executive Director of The Food Depot, praised the community’s efforts, stating, “The inaugural Stuff the Bus food drive was a true reflection of Santa Fe as a community. We are so thankful for everyone who generously donated on Friday to fill the shelves of The Food Mobile.” Read more about the event’s success here.
This year, the campaign shifts its focus to supporting the SFCC Food Pantry, which continues to address food insecurity among students and their families.
Food Insecurity in Northern New Mexico
Food insecurity is a pressing issue in Northern New Mexico, where one in eight residents and one in five children face hunger. In Santa Fe County alone, approximately 16,940 individuals, including 5,430 children, are affected. The SFCC Food Pantry plays a critical role in meeting these needs, ensuring students have the resources they need to thrive academically and personally.
Become a Sponsor
Corporate sponsors play a vital role in making events like “Stuff the Bus” successful. If your business would like to support this impactful campaign, contact Art Trujillo, VP of Sales at Hutton Broadcasting, at [email protected].
Sponsors receive recognition through logo placement, event promotion, and live mentions during broadcasts. Beyond the publicity, sponsoring provides the satisfaction of helping neighbors in need.
Live Radio Remotes at Stuff the Bus
Meet some of your favorite local radio personalities during the December 16 event! Chris “The Mighty D” Diestler from Radio Free Santa Fe will broadcast from 10 a.m.–noon, Richard Eeds of KTRC will join at 10 a.m., and Kidd Corona from Outlaw Country and Jam’n will entertain donors from noon–2 p.m.
What to Donate at Stuff the Bus
Non-perishable food items are the focus, including:
- Canned protein, fruits, and vegetables
- Grains, rice, oats, and flours
- Nut butters, jellies, soups, pasta, and sauces
- Pre-packaged meals
Personal care items like diapers and hygiene products are also in high demand. Please ensure donations are unopened, not expired, and avoid glass containers.
Albertsons Market simplifies the process with pre-packaged $20 donation baskets, filled with the SFCC Food Pantry’s most-needed items.
Stuff the Bus History
Last year, nine radio stations in Farmington, Cortez, and Durango joined the Hutton Broadcasting family, bringing with them a long-standing tradition of community support. For over 20 years, these stations have hosted Stuff the Bus campaigns, benefiting local food charities and collecting thousands of pounds of food. Their dedication and impact inspired the Santa Fe team to launch a similar effort in their own community.
Join Us In Helping the Hungry
Hutton Broadcasting, SantaFe.com, KBAC, KTRC, KQBA, and KLBU invite you to take part in Santa Fe’s inaugural Stuff the Bus campaign. Stop by Albertsons Market on Zafarano on Friday, December 16, with your food or cash donation and help us Stuff the Bus to support those in need.
Your generosity fuels change. Let’s come together as a community to ensure no one goes hungry this holiday season. Every can, every dollar, and every moment matters. See you on December 16!
Stuff The Bus Sponsors
