Summer is often the hungriest season for many families in New Mexico. With children out of school and household expenses rising, more people are turning to local food pantries for help. In 2025, things are even more worrisome. With prices on the rise in so many key areas like groceries, rent, and transportation, the Storehouse is seeing record numbers of people at the food pantry. There is also increased demand and fewer seasonal volunteers, so the pantry is encouraging community members to stand Together Against Hunger through advocacy, action, and giving.
Here are five ways to support the fight against food insecurity and stand Together Against Hunger:
1. Advocate for SNAP
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) remains a critical resource for families facing food insecurity. Proposed cuts or restrictions to SNAP benefits could significantly increase the number of people seeking emergency food assistance from organizations like the Storehouse.
In New Mexico, approximately 23% of residents rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). That’s the highest rate in the nation. Beyond alleviating hunger, SNAP stimulates the local economy. In fact, every $1 in benefits generates up to $1.80 in economic activity, supporting retailers and farmers statewide. Bernalillo County alone has over 141,000 individuals receiving SNAP assistance. In short, cuts to SNAP will definitely have a negative impact on the local community and strain the Storehouse’s operations due to the influx of so many new individuals seeking food assistance.
Concerned residents are encouraged to support SNAP benefits by contacting their congressional representatives and speaking out in support of accessible food programs. After all, policy change starts with public input. Advocacy plays a vital role. FeedingAmerica.org has an advocacy tool set up specifically for SNAP with pre-written advocacy messages. It only takes a minute to speak up, and it can help protect food access for thousands of New Mexicans.
2. Volunteer at the Food Pantry
Volunteers are essential to the Storehouse’s operations. During the summer months, when school-based and student volunteers are less available, the need for additional help increases. Individuals, families, and workplace groups are invited to support the pantry. Ongoing help, such as weekly visits would be a wonderful way to give back. However, even one-time group projects are a big help. That’s especially true on the Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday mornings the Storehouse is open to the public and handing out free groceries.
At the Storehouse, volunteers help with sorting food donations and packing carts with a variety of groceries on the days we hand out food. Finally, we pre-pack boxes of shelf-stable foods. It is easy to get started and easily achievable work which is great for youth groups, service clubs, and community-minded businesses alike. To get started email info@StorehouseNM.org.
3. Join the Car Show to Support Hunger Relief
Car enthusiasts can turn their passion into purpose by participating in the Storehouse’s upcoming fundraising event. The annual Hot Rods for Hunger car show offers an opportunity for local individuals and businesses to help fight hunger. For example, individual car owners can register their cars. They can win prizes and all proceeds help the Storehouse provide food. Sponsors and vendors can also get involved. This allows businesses to get their services or products in front of hundreds of car enthusiasts and families who come to the car show, while also helping the Storehouse fight hunger. Learn about the Hot Rods for Hunger event here.
4. Host a Food Drive
Community food drives remain one of the most effective ways to collect high-need items such as canned proteins, pasta, peanut butter, canned fruits and vegetables, and more. You can create your own collection box for your business, club or school. Neighborhoods have even created them successfully, leaving them out in walkable communities to fill up as people are out and about. Of course, the Storehouse can also deliver bins to groups who want them. If you would like to include a fundraiser or “virtual food drive” element, use this handy tool on the Storehouse website.
5. Make a Financial Gift to the Together Against Hunger Campaign
Donations allow the pantry to purchase nutritious food, meet the most urgent needs, and remain open to all who come through its doors. Contributions made to the Together Against Hunger campaign directly support local families, seniors, and individuals struggling with hunger. Currently, through the Spring/Summer Storehouse campaign, gifts are being matched by the Carl C. Anderson Sr. & Marie Jo Anderson Charitable Foundation. Your donation of $100 today could mean $200 to the Storehouse. Donate to the Together Against Hunger campaign today!
However people come together to fight hunger, each effort is appreciated. With the Storehouse seeing record numbers of families turn to the food pantry, every one of us is needed in the fight against food insecurity. Most importantly, each person who cares to can make a difference.