Articles

The 2025 Red Deer Stuff-a-Bus campaign once again brought the community together to support families in need across Central Alberta. Led by STEP professional Tara Gilkie, Blackfalds service center administrator, and supported by generous contributions from STEP professionals and industry partners, this year’s effort delivered meaningful impact during the holiday season.

The campaign, held November 20 to 22 at Parkland Mall in Red Deer, AB, collects food and toy donations in support of the Red Deer Food Bank Society and the Red Deer Christmas Bureau, which provide essential assistance to local families. Over the three-day event, community members and local businesses helped fill an entire school bus with donations.

This year’s Stuff-a-Bus campaign raised a total of $88,510.00 across the community. As part of that effort, STEP contributed $4,300 in toys through cash donations, which is double last year’s total, in addition to the many toys donated directly by professionals. Tara coordinated the toy purchases and ensured every contribution was directed where it was needed most.

“This year’s Stuff-a-Bus campaign showed what we can accomplish when we come together. Our team’s support helped us double last year’s toy donations and provide meaningful help to families in our community. I want to thank everyone who contributed and helped make the season brighter for others,” said Tara Gilkie.

This year’s results highlight the purpose of Stuff-a-Bus: generosity, collaboration, and community spirit. Thank you to Tara, the STEP professionals, and all partners who helped make the season brighter for so many families.

To learn more about the organizations supported through Stuff-a-Bus, visit:

• Red Deer Food Bank Society

• Red Deer Christmas Bureau

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