Staff Report / June 7, 2026
The annual “Fill the Bus” campaign is underway as Wegmans and the Food Bank of the Southern Tier partner to collect food and monetary donations for families facing food insecurity across the region. The month-long fundraiser runs through June 17 and supports the Food Bank’s efforts in Schuyler, Steuben, and Tompkins counties, where thousands of residents continue to struggle with access to nutritious food.
Shoppers visiting participating Wegmans stores can contribute by donating non-perishable food items or making a monetary donation at checkout. According to the Food Bank of the Southern Tier, checkout donations of $2, $3, and $5 can provide approximately six, nine, and 15 meals, respectively, with customers also able to donate any amount they choose.
Participating Wegmans locations include:
- Elmira
- Johnson City
- Ithaca
- Hornell
- Corning
Residents who are unable to visit a store in person can also support the campaign through online donations.
The fundraiser comes as hunger remains a significant challenge throughout the Southern Tier. The Food Bank reports that one in five children and one in seven individuals in the region are at risk of hunger. Officials say every contribution helps provide food assistance to local families while supporting programs designed to create long-term food security. The campaign also helps replenish supplies ahead of the summer months, when many children lose access to school meal programs.
Learn even more at: https://foodlinkny.org/wegmans-fill-the-bus-campaign-returns/
