Join the effort to combat food insecurity and ensure families in San Juan County have access to essential nutrition this summer.
The Stuff the Bus Summer Food Drive is collecting non-perishable food items and monetary donations to support our neighbors in need.
Hutton Broadcasting’s Farmington stations have teamed up again for the Stuff the Bus Summer Food Drive, benefiting the Echo Food Bank. In 2025, the initiative collected 6,228 pounds of food in five hours, literally stuffing the bus. Help make 2026 the best year yet.
What are the event details?
- Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026
- Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Where: Albertsons grocery store
- Address: 4909 E Main St, Farmington, NM 87402
- Beneficiary: Echo Food Bank
How can I help?
- Donate Food: Bring non-perishable items directly to the bus parked at Albertsons.
- Purchase Pre-packaged Bags: For your convenience, Albertsons will have pre-packaged bags of food available for purchase at various price points. These bags contain high-need items specifically requested by the food bank.
- Monetary Contributions: Cash donations will be accepted on-site, allowing the Echo Food Bank to purchase fresh produce and dairy products.
- Spread the Word: Tell your friends, family, and coworkers to stop by Albertsons on June 6.
What should I donate?
We are seeking shelf-stable, nutritious items including:
- Canned proteins (tuna, chicken, beans)
- Peanut butter and jelly
- Cereal and oatmeal
- Pasta and sauce
- Canned fruits and vegetables
- Rice and boxed meals
What is food insecurity?
Food insecurity is the lack of consistent access to enough food for every person in a household to live an active, healthy life. This challenge often intensifies during the summer months when school-based meal programs are unavailable. Addressing this issue is vital for the physical health and well-being of the Farmington community.
Why participate in the Stuff the Bus Summer Food Drive?
This event is a collaborative initiative designed to fill the shelves of the Echo Food Bank. By partnering with local businesses and residents, we can ensure that no one in our community has to wonder where their next meal will come from.
Last year’s efforts set a strong foundation, and for 2026, we aim to exceed all previous donation records.
Support San Juan County families
The Hutton Broadcasting Stuff the Bus Summer Food Drive is an annual initiative to support our community members during a critical time of year. Every bag of groceries and every dollar donated stays local, helping the Echo Food Bank provide for those who need it most.
Hutton Broadcasting’s local stations look forward to seeing the Farmington community come together on Saturday, June 6, to help us literally stuff the bus with hope and nourishment for the Farmington Echo Food Bank.
Stuff the Bus Summer Food Drive FAQs
Where exactly is the food drive being held?
The event will take place at the Albertsons grocery store in Farmington at 4909 E Main Street, Farmington, NM 87402. Look for the Hutton Broadcasting team and the bus parked out front in the main lot from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026.
What items does the food bank need most?
Bring or buy non-perishable, shelf-stable items that provide good nutrition. The most requested items include canned proteins like tuna and chicken, peanut butter, cereal, oatmeal, pasta, canned fruits, and canned vegetables. These items are chosen because they have a long shelf life and are easy for families to prepare.
Can I donate money instead of groceries?
Yes, monetary donations are accepted on-site. Cash contributions are incredibly helpful because they give the Echo Food Bank the flexibility to buy fresh produce, dairy, and other perishable items that aren’t typically collected in the bins. This allows the food bank to provide a more balanced diet to the families they serve.
What if I don’t have time to shop for specific items?
Albertsons makes it easy by offering pre-packaged donation bags at the store. These bags are available at various price points and are already filled with high-need items requested by the food bank. You can simply buy them at the register and add them to the donation pile on your way out.
Why is food insecurity a bigger issue in the summer?
During the school year, many children rely on free or reduced-cost school meal programs for their daily nutrition. When school is out for the summer, those programs stop, putting a significant extra burden on families to provide those additional meals. The Stuff the Bus Summer Food Drive helps bridge that gap during the most difficult months of the year.
Who is organizing this event?
The Stuff the Bus Food Drive is a community collaboration led by Hutton Broadcasting’s Farmington radio stations, Albertsons, and various local partners. Everyone involved is working together to ensure the Echo Food Bank is well-stocked to serve the San Juan County area.
How much food are you trying to collect this year?
The goal for 2026 is to surpass all previous donation records! Last year’s community support resulted in a massive influx of supplies, and the hope is to “stuff the bus” even fuller this year to ensure the Echo Food Bank can keep up with the rising demand in our community.
Can I volunteer to help during the event?
While the primary goal is collecting donations, we encourage community members to help by spreading the word about the event. You can also visit the booth to meet the Hutton Broadcasting staff and learn more about how the Echo Food Bank serves Farmington year-round.
