Translink’s Stuff a Bus Campaign bound for Derry's North West Transport Hub

Translink and FareShare NI are set to wrap up this year’s Stuff a Bus campaign during the final collection week with a last appeal for the public to help them reach the 30,000 meal target.

The roadshow will visit the North West Transport Hub in Derry on Tuesday before heading to Newry Bus Station on Wednesday, and then culminating in a final collection day at Belfast Grand Central Station. U105 doing a live broadcast from each station.

Following strong public support throughout this year’s campaign, FareShare NI, operated by Homeless Connect, and Translink have a joint aim of achieving 30,000 meals. They are urging the public to help push the initiative over the line by donating during the final collection days.

Anyone can get involved by bringing donations to the local transport hubs, or to the North West Transport Hub on Tuesday. Suggested donations include long-life and non-perishable food items, or monetary donations of any amount. All donations collected will go towards supporting local food provision efforts across the region.

Mark Montgomery, Translink’s Northern Area Route Manager said: “Every year, Stuff a Bus highlights how communities across Northern Ireland step up to support one another, and this year has been no different. At Translink, we see firsthand this remarkable generosity through the donations at our stations, from staff, passengers and supporting businesses. With just a little more help, we can reach our target and make a meaningful difference for families who need it most this Christmas.”

Nicola McCrudden, CEO of Homeless Connect said: “Stuff a Bus has seen huge generosity this year - from school communities to local employers and Translink passengers. We’re now in the final stretch and we know 30,000 meals is within reach. If people can bring just a few items to a station near them, it will make a real difference.”

With one in six people in the north facing hunger, food insecurity remains a stark reality for many households. All donations go directly to FareShare NI, who work with local foodbanks, community groups and frontline charities to get surplus food and donated essentials to people who need them most.

To make a monetary donation, visit the Stuff a Bus website at www.stuffabusni.com.