Fill the Bus, Fill the Bellies - Join the “Stuff the Bus” Movement

About the Event

Unitrans, a service of the Associated Students of UC Davis (ASUCD), and the Davis Food Co-op have joined forces to invite the community to participate in this wonderful initiative. The goal is to pack one of Unitrans' vintage double-decker red buses with an abundance of food and essential items. All donations will directly contribute to supplying The Pantry, a campus space managed by ASUCD that offers food and necessities to those in need.

Andie Tarabzooni, the director of The Pantry, emphasizes the importance of this event. “The Pantry is dedicated to sustaining student and employee well-being, ensuring they don't have to worry about their next meal. We hope to provide them with the right food and resources to keep them energized and refreshed.”

Most-Needed Food Donations

The Pantry has specific food items at the top of their donation list. Soups, canned proteins, oats, seasoning spices, pasta, rice, beans, nuts, coffee blends, broth, purées of any kind, coconut milk, diced tomatoes, ramen, crackers, sauces, lentils, chickpeas, and tomato paste are all highly sought after. These are not just quick bites but sufficient to get people through the day.

Tarabzooni further explains, “We look for donations that can provide lasting sustenance. Even if an item doesn't match our exact list, if it meets safety guidelines, we will gladly accept it.”

Highly Prioritized Non-Food Donations

In addition to food, hygiene items are also in high demand. Deodorant, menstrual pads, shampoo, conditioner, disinfecting wipes, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and diapers are among the items that can make a big difference in the lives of those served by The Pantry.

The Davis Food Co-op, founded by UC Davis students in 1972, is a local grocer that offers a 100% organically grown produce department and a wide range of necessities and specialty items. By donating to the Co-op, you are supporting local farmers, organizations, and the local community.

Incentives for Donors

The first 50 donors will receive a Unitrans pass good for 10 rides on the campus-city transit service. This is an added bonus for those who contribute to the “Stuff the Bus” event. Additionally, the top deck of the bus will be open to all, providing a unique experience for donors.

If the bus is completely stuffed with donations by the end of the event, the Co-op will donate $500 to The Pantry. If not, the money will go towards reaching the goal of stuffing the bus.