From June 24 to July 31, donate online, in-branch or at any Jersey Mike’s store location in San Diego County

Kids face many hardships — having access to school supplies should not be one of them. That’s why SDCCU Stuff the Bus is once again collecting monetary donations to purchase back-to-school supplies for students experiencing homelessness — to help set these students up for success in the coming school year. The annual Stuff the Bus campaign, celebrating its 10th year, was launched in partnership with San Diego County Credit Union® (SDCCU®), the San Diego County Office of Education and iHeartMedia radio stations in support of Live Well San Diego. In addition to online donations, the community can also donate in-store at any Jersey Mike’s location in San Diego County. Having a backpack and all of the necessary back-to-school supplies is essential for success in the new school year. A small donation can make a big difference in the life of a student in need.

“We continue to hear from local schools and educators asking for supplies and letting us know how much it means to the families who receive them. There are many families who are struggling to meet their basic needs,” said Susie Terry, coordinator, Homeless Education Services at the San Diego County Office of Education. “This drive allows us to alleviate some of their burden by providing new supplies to students so they can start school ready to learn. We are so thankful for our continued partnership with SDCCU and their support of Stuff the Bus!”

More than 21,000 school-age children were identified as experiencing homelessness during the last school year. Homelessness for school-age children can mean living in a shelter, sharing a residence with multiple families, living in a car or trailer in San Diego County or sharing a room in an apartment with relatives. Homelessness is not limited to urban, downtown San Diego — it also affects suburban school districts all over the county.

“Every year, San Diego comes together to support students in our local community who are experiencing homelessness. Stuff the Bus helps these students feel ready to learn and succeed as they start their new school year with new supplies just like their peers,” said Teresa Campbell, SDCCU president and CEO. “We invite you to join us to help students who are in desperate need of support throughout the county. We are thankful to the San Diego County Office of Education, iHeartMedia and Jersey Mike's for partnering with the credit union.”

Monetary donations will be accepted in-store at all Jersey Mike’s locations in San Diego County, at all SDCCU branch locations or online at sdccu.com/donate from June 24 to July 31, 2024.