TAMIU Alumni Association Launches 'Pack the Pantry' Community Donation Drive Supporting Dusty’s Food Pantry

The Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) Alumni Association is calling on the Laredo community to join Pack the Pantry, a community-wide donation drive benefiting Dusty's Food Pantry at TAMIU.

The initiative, "Dustdevils Helping Dustdevils," is part of a campaign bringing together alumni, students, local businesses and community organizations in a collective effort to give back to the university community, said David "Kash" Vasquez, TAMIU Alumni Association president.

"Pack the Pantry represents the spirit of giving back and supporting the next generation of Dustdevils. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students," Vasquez said.

From Oct. 19 through Nov. 14, 2026, individuals are encouraged to donate nonperishable food items, personal hygiene products and other essential supplies to support TAMIU students experiencing food insecurity and basic needs challenges.

Donations can be made at the following locations throughout Laredo:

• TAMIU Office of Student Affairs, 5201 University Blvd., Student Center, Room 226
• TAMIU Office of Alumni Relations, 5201 University Blvd., Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library, Room 261
• Fernando A. Salinas Community Center, 520 Reynolds St.
• Fred M. & Anita Bruni Community Center, 452 Ranch Penitas Rd.
• Jet Bowl North, 5823 McPherson Road
• Laredo Title & Abstract, 415 Shiloh Dr.
• Lilia Perez Community Center, 4420 Old Santa María Rd.
• Lollipop Learning Center, 1701 Peaceful Meadow Ct.
• Pla-Mor Entertainment, 2819 Bob Bullock Loop
• Sames Auto Arena, 6700 Arena Blvd.
• Webb County Treasurer's Office, 1110 Washington St., Suite 202
• 550 Pizzeria, 2101 Shiloh Dr.

Suggested nonperishable food donations include canned proteins, canned fruits and vegetables, rice, pasta, cereal, peanut butter and shelf-stable milk.

Personal hygiene products individuals can donate include toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, soap and feminine hygiene products. Donors can also donate diapers, baby wipes and infant formula.

Dusty's Food Pantry provides food and essential supplies to University students experiencing basic needs insecurity, said Melissa D. Olivarez, Office of Student Affairs program specialist II and foster care liaison.

"Having access to basic necessities allows students to focus on their education and well-being. We are grateful to the Alumni Association and community partners for their continued support," Olivarez said.

The campaign will also provide eligible students an opportunity to earn community service hours through qualifying contributions. Students can receive one donation hour for every five qualifying nonperishable food items or three qualifying hygiene products donated, subject to the University's 10-hour monthly maximum and established verification procedures.

As part of the campaign, the TAMIU Alumni Association is encouraging recognized student organizations to participate in a friendly donation competition to see which group can collect the most qualifying items.

"A little friendly competition can go a long way when it's for a great cause," said Rebecca "Christy" Rangel-Bryand, TAMIU Alumni Association secretary. "We encourage student organizations to come together, show their Dustdevil pride and support their fellow students."

The campaign will culminate with Pack the Pantry Community Day on Saturday, Nov. 14, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Pla-Mor Entertainment, 2819 Bob Bullock Loop.

"We want Pack the Pantry Community Day to be more than just a donation drive," said Jorge Luis Quijano, TAMIU Alumni Association past president and Pack the Pantry initiative chair. "It's an opportunity for families, alumni and students to come together, enjoy an afternoon at Pla-Mor and give back to our Dustdevil community."

Local businesses and organizations interested in becoming official donation drop-off locations are encouraged to contact the Alumni Association to help expand the campaign's reach and provide more ways for residents to contribute.

For more information, donation locations, student organization participation, or sponsorship opportunities, contact the TAMIU Alumni Association at alumni@tamiu.edu.

A proud member of The Texas A&M University System, TAMIU provides a world-class educational experience to students from throughout South Texas, Northern Mexico, and beyond.

For more on the University’s story, visit tamiu.edu or follow its social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube and X.