Stuff the Bus Campaign Supports Students Experiencing Homelessness

The San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE) and San Diego County Credit Union (SDCCU) are once again teaming up to support the region’s students who are experiencing homelessness, launching the 12th annual Stuff the Bus campaign that runs June 22 through July 31. 

The money raised will help purchase backpacks and school supplies for San Diego County students.

Learn more about Stuff the Bus on CBS 8

More than 24,000 school-age children in San Diego County have been identified as experiencing homelessness, which includes any child or youth who lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. SDCOE and SDCCU – along with iHeartMedia – aim to collect thousands of dollars online and through in-branch donations to purchase much-needed pencils, pens, binders, crayons, backpacks, and more.

“Making sure our students experiencing homelessness have a backpack full of supplies to start the school year is just one way we can help them feel welcome, confident, and ready to learn on the first day,” said Dr. Gloria E. Ciriza, San Diego County superintendent of schools. “We know that times are hard for many and are grateful for any donation, as even the smallest amount can have a big impact for a child.”

The Stuff the Bus campaign will accept donations online and in SDCCU branches throughout San Diego County through the end of July. Donations are welcome in any amount; for example, $20 will cover the cost of a backpack filled with supplies for an elementary-age student, while $25 will cover the cost of a backpack and supplies for a middle- or high school-age student. More information is available on the SDCOE website.

The SDCCU Stuff the Bus campaign partners with local iHeartMedia radio stations for special appearances and live interviews. You might hear more about Stuff the Bus on the following stations: Channel 93.3, Star 94.1, JAM’N 95.7, KGB 101.5, ROCK 105.3, KOGO AM 600, San Diego Sports AM 760, and The Patriot AM 1360.

“Every year, Stuff the Bus helps ensure that students experiencing homelessness start the school year with the supplies they need to feel prepared and ready for the first day,” said Susie Terry, coordinator of homeless education services for SDCOE. “For many families facing housing instability, these donations help remove barriers and provide a sense of belonging during what can be an incredibly challenging time. We are grateful for SDCCU’s continued partnership and for the generosity of our community in helping students feel supported, valued, and equipped for success.”

In 2025, the Stuff the Bus campaign raised $117,000 in monetary donations to help purchase more than 8,850 backpacks filled with supplies for San Diego County students.