Bust the Bus unites local businesses to fight child hunger in the Piedmont Triad

Bust the Bus, the Greensboro-based food drive and fundraiser, is gearing up for its fifth annual event on June 6 at First National Bank Field.

Hosted in collaboration with Charles Aris, BackPack Beginnings and The Greensboro Grasshoppers, this year’s event promises to be the biggest yet as the community rallies together to support children in need.

Organized by the local nonprofit BackPack Beginnings, Bust the Bus brings the community together to combat child hunger in the Piedmont Triad. On June 6, the iconic yellow school bus will be parked outside the Bellemeade Street entrance of First National Bank Field, ready to be filled to the brim with donations.

“Joining forces with Charles Aris again this year for Bust the Bus is more than just a partnership – it’s a shared commitment to making a real difference in the lives of those facing hunger,” said Parker White, founder and executive director at BackPack Beginnings. “Together, we’re not only collecting food this June; we’re collecting generosity, compassion and support for our community. We hope others will join us in our efforts!”

Last year’s event raised $22,192 and collected 1,650 pounds of food. These donations were distributed throughout the community, making a tangible difference in the lives of children facing food insecurity.

One of the driving forces behind the event’s success is the support from local businesses. Through a unique sponsorship model, businesses can contribute within specific brackets, earning prominent recognition such as having their logo displayed on the bus itself.

“This annual event is more than just collecting food items; it’s our community coming together to make a tangible difference in the lives of children and their families across Guilford, Forsyth and Alamance counties,” said Sydney Olszewski, director of marketing at Charles Aris.

“Seeing the energy and generosity of our sponsors and participants fills me with hope and reminds me of the incredible impact we can achieve when we unite for a common cause. We’re excited to make this our best event yet,” Olszewski added.

Bust the Bus 2024 will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on June 6, just before the Greensboro Grasshoppers take on the Jersey Shore BlueClaws.

Attendees are encouraged to bring donations of food or funds, each contribution earning them a chance to spin the prize wheel. Prizes range from merchandise to Babe’s Bucks, redeemable within the Grasshoppers’ stadium.

Join us on June 6 as we come together to “Bust the Bus” and make a lasting impact on the lives of children in our community. Together, we can fight to end child hunger!

Learn more at www.facebook.com/bustthebus.