Stuff the Bus

WHAT IS STUFF THE BUS AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?

Stuff the Bus is a countywide school supply drive in Monterey County dedicated to supporting K–12 students experiencing homelessness or near-homeless conditions with new backpacks and essential school supplies. These students may be living in shelters, motels, cars, overcrowded housing, or other unstable environments not intended for long-term habitation. In 2025, nearly 13,000 local students were identified as experiencing homelessness, underscoring the urgent need for community support. Through a collaborative effort with the Monterey County Office of Education and local school districts, Stuff the Bus distributed 6,700 backpacks filled with necessary supplies via Family Resource Centers across the county. More than just providing materials, the program helps ease financial strain for families, promotes educational equity, and ensures students across Monterey County start the school year prepared and confident.