Two Large-Scale Southern N.M. Free Food Distributions Expected To Feed At Least 1,000 Families in June

LAS CRUCES and SUNLAND PARK, NM – Roadrunner Food Bank staff and dozens of volunteers expect to distribute tens-of-thousands of pounds of food to more than 1,000 families across the Mesilla Valley in June.

Two large-scale food distributions are planned to address increased need at the outset of the early summer season. As New Mexico schools let out for break and children spend more time at home, there is an immediate demand on families to provide more meals – often without the resources to do so.

“We know the summer months can quickly become an impossible choice between keeping the lights or the cooler on, and putting food on the table,” said Katy Anderson, Vice President of Strategy, Advocacy and Partnerships. “No one should have to make that choice and these large-scale pop-up distributions aim to offer some relief to our neighbors.”

Anyone who needs food is invited to attend the free food distributions. There is no advanced registration required, and both distributions will be a drive-thru format. Because of the larger scale, Roadrunner is also in need of additional volunteer support to direct traffic, load food into vehicles, and other on-site roles.

The first event will begin at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, June 20, at the Field of Dreams Softball and Soccer Complex (2501 Tashiro Dr., Las Cruces, NM, 88007).

The following week, a second distribution will be held at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 28, at the Sunland Park Sports Complex (4700 McNutt Rd., Santa Teresa, NM 88063).

Additional food distributions being held by the food bank or partner agencies of the food bank across the state can be found at www.rrfb.org/find-food. Please contact any site prior to visiting for additional information. Volunteer sign up information is also on the website.

New Mexico is ranked as one of the most food-insecure and poverty-stricken states in the nation. Roadrunner® Food Bank, a Feeding America member, is the largest non-profit dedicated to providing access to food and meals in New Mexico. The food bank serves as a distribution hub and works through hundreds of affiliated partners around the state including food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, group homes, and other nonprofit organizations to provide food to people experiencing hunger.  Roadrunner also distributes food through its own specialized programs helping children, families and seniors at partner schools, low-income seniors housing sites, senior centers, healthcare locations and tribal communities.  Last year, the food bank distributed more than 46 million pounds of food, reaching tens of thousands of people every week of the year.

To get involved, give time, give food, give funds. Visit www.rrfb.org,or follow the food bank on social media: Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram.