Los Banos, CA (November 16, 2025) — A countywide effort to support families facing food insecurity is heading into its final stretch this week as the annual Stuff the Bus holiday food drive makes stops across Merced County, including Gustine, Dos Palos, and Los Banos. The campaign, organized by The Bus, the Merced County Food Bank, and the United Way of Merced County, invites residents to donate non-perishable food items between November 18 and November 22.
The Westside communities — Gustine, Dos Palos, and Los Banos — will host three key stops during the final two days of the event:
- Friday, November 21 – Gustine
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Henry Miller Park - Saturday, November 22 – Dos Palos
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Dollar General (1111 Elgin Ave) - Saturday, November 22 – Los Banos
2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Target/Marshalls parking lot (1301 W. Pacheco Blvd.)
Residents are encouraged to bring canned vegetables, soups, beans, rice, pasta, cereal, and other shelf-stable food items. According to organizers, the Food Bank’s supply has been heavily impacted by rising demand across the county, making this year’s drive especially important.
“Teaming up with our partners to help those in need in our community is simply the right thing to do,” said Stacie Guzman, Executive Director of the Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County. She emphasized that both the Food Bank and United Way have been working nonstop to support families throughout Merced County.
Food Bank Director of Development Joe Hypes highlighted the community-focused spirit behind the event: “‘Stuff the Bus” is about neighbors helping neighbors. Even a single donated can of food can spark hope and connection in our community.”
United Way CEO Rob Hypes noted that food insecurity continues to rise locally, and accessible donation stops help ensure families have support heading into the holiday season.
Stuff the Bus includes multiple stops throughout the county, including South Merced, Livingston, Merced, Atwater, Delhi, Gustine, Dos Palos, and Los Banos. The Los Banos stop will serve as the final collection point for the countywide event.
Residents seeking more information can visit mercedthebus.com or contact The Bus directly.
