Community partners aim to collect food and boost awareness during September
ALBUQUERQUE — Rio Metro Regional Transit District and Roadrunner Food Bank will hold two morning food drives at the Montaño Rail Runner Station this month as part of Hunger Action Month, offering transit incentives to encourage donations and raise awareness about local food insecurity.
The events are scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 16, and Wednesday, Sept. 23, from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Those who bring nonperishable food items to the station will receive one free Rail Runner Day Pass, valid through the end of 2026.
- Dates: Sept. 16 and Sept. 23
- Time: 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.
- Location: Montaño Rail Runner Station, northwest Albuquerque
- Incentive: One Rail Runner Day Pass per donor, valid through 2026
Organizers described the collaboration as a practical way for transit riders and neighborhood residents to contribute to local food relief while highlighting the prevalence of hunger across the region.
"Food insecurity is so prevalent — the person sitting next to you on the train could be facing hunger — and this food drive is a great way to take action," said Rio Metro Executive Director Robert Gonzales.
Roadrunner Food Bank is one of the largest hunger-relief organizations in New Mexico, distributing millions of pounds of food annually through a network of partner agencies. The Rail Runner partnership leverages transit visibility and convenience to make donating straightforward for commuters and community members.
Why it matters to Albuquerque
Hunger Action Month, observed every September, is designed to focus public attention on food insecurity and mobilize volunteers and donors. In Albuquerque, where many households face economic pressures tied to housing and basic needs, local drives like this supplement food bank distributions and partner agency pantries.
The Montaño station sits on the northwest edge of Albuquerque, serving commuters traveling between the city and surrounding communities. By staging the drive at a transit hub, organizers hope to reach a mix of regular riders and passersby who can contribute during their morning routines.
| Event | Date | Time | Location | Incentive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stuff the Train | Sept. 16 | 8:30–10 a.m. | Montaño Rail Runner Station | Rail Runner Day Pass (valid through 2026) |
| Stuff the Train | Sept. 23 | 8:30–10 a.m. | Montaño Rail Runner Station | Rail Runner Day Pass (valid through 2026) |
Transit incentives have been used elsewhere to boost participation in charitable drives; organizers in Albuquerque are betting the combination of convenience and a small reward will increase donations during a month dedicated to hunger awareness.
Residents who cannot attend the specified mornings can still support Roadrunner Food Bank through its regular donation channels and partner food pantries across the city. The food bank maintains a calendar of volunteer opportunities and distribution sites on its website, where individuals can find additional ways to help year-round.
For many Albuquerque households, seasonal drives and ongoing food bank services are a critical supplement to household food budgets. The Rail Runner events aim both to collect food and to remind the public that hunger affects people across socio-economic lines, including fellow commuters and neighbors.
Those planning to participate are asked to bring shelf-stable, nonperishable items. Organizers did not publish an exhaustive list of requested items but typical high-need donations include canned proteins, low-sodium soups, dry beans, rice, and boxed meals.
Additional questions about the events can be directed to Rio Metro or Roadrunner Food Bank through their official contact channels.
