Sandia Area Matches $50,000 in Donations – Providing 1.37 Million Meals

(ALBUQUERQUE, NM) — Sandia Area Federal Credit Union is proud to announce a major milestone in its mission to support local families and children in need, raising enough funds to provide over ONE MILLION MEALS in partnership with Storehouse New Mexico!
This remarkable achievement was made possible through the annual Storehouse New Mexico F.A.C.E. (Feeding Area Children Everyday) campaign—a heartfelt collaboration between the food pantry and Sandia Area designed to fight hunger and ensure New Mexico families can thrive year-round.
Fueled by the passion and generosity of Sandia Area members, employees, and community supporters, this year’s campaign raised an astounding $224,319. Combined with Sandia Area’s $50,000 donation match, the total reached a record $274,319. In addition, employees and members contributed more than 1,000 pounds in food donations. These contributions marked a 65% increase in funds raised compared to last year, despite the rising economic challenges faced by many New Mexicans.

“Our goal this year was ambitious—one million meals—because we know the devastating impact food insecurity has on children and families,” said Rachael Garcia, Sandia Area’s Senior Vice President of Marketing. “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who came together to uplift our community. Their generosity inspires us every day.”From donation barrels at every branch and spare change collection jars to engaging staff activities and appearances on local TV shows, the entire Sandia Area community rallied to make a difference.

“These are challenging times, with rising grocery costs and an increasing number of families needing support,” said Kevin Todd, Sandia Area CEO and member of the Storehouse New Mexico board of directors. “Yet, year after year, our members and friends in the community step up in bigger and more meaningful ways. We are profoundly thankful for their compassion and support.”

Storehouse New Mexico, one of the state’s largest food pantries, feeds an average of 55,000 New Mexicans per year, from infants to seniors. According to the organization, one in five New Mexico children faces food insecurity—a statistic that highlights the urgent need for continued community action. “It’s partnerships like this that show the power of coming together,” said Storehouse New Mexico representatives. “We simply couldn’t do this without the incredible support of partners like Sandia Area and all the amazing people who contribute.”

Sandia Area’s commitment to community care is woven into the fabric of its values, and this year’s campaign is a testament to what can be achieved when people unite for a common cause. Through its partnerships, Sandia Area is building a brighter, stronger New Mexico—one meal at a time.

About Sandia Area Federal Credit Union
Founded in 1956, Sandia Area Federal Credit Union is a member-owned, full-service financial institution serving over 90,000 members across Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, Corrales, Santa Fe, and numerous surrounding counties. With assets exceeding $1.1 billion, Sandia Area is dedicated to helping its members thrive by offering high-quality financial services and maintaining a deep commitment to the well-being of the community and the environment.

About Storehouse New Mexico
Storehouse New Mexico has been one of the state’s largest food pantries for over 40 years, providing free groceries to more than 55,000 people annually, from infants to seniors. With nearly 20% of New Mexicans facing food insecurity and one in five children going without enough to eat, Storehouse New Mexico relies on food and financial donations to support local families in need. For more information, visit www.StorehouseNM.org.