This Annual Philly Tradition Promises to “Haul Away Hunger” in the Region

For the 16th year, an awe-inspiring convoy of Toyota Tundras rolls through the streets of Philadelphia, loaded with pallets of food bound for Philabundance. The annual “Toyota Tundra Food Drive” continues its mission to fight hunger in the region, and Paul Muller, President of the Tri-State Toyota Dealers Association, shares why this cause remains as urgent—and inspiring—as ever.

How is food insecurity impacting Philadelphia in 2025?
Food insecurity remains a daily struggle for far too many in our community. According to the most recent reporting from Map the Meal Gap, an estimated 277,860 residents in Philadelphia alone were food insecure, and that number continues to fluctuate as economic pressures mount. For over 40 years, Philabundance has worked tirelessly to change this reality by redirecting surpluses of food to where it’s needed most. Its reach spans a nine-county area, covering Southeastern Pennsylvania and South Jersey. Events like the “Toyota Tundra Food Drive” are essential to Philabundance’s mission, and this year’s 16th annual Drive comprises over 80 Tundras loaded with food, parading through the city to help Haul Away Hunger once again.

Why do Toyota and the Tri-State Toyota Dealers Association continue to champion Philabundance?
At Toyota, we believe that strong communities start with basic human needs being met, and food is one of the most fundamental. In our region, about 1 in 6 people are grappling with food insecurity. In 2024 alone, Philabundance delivered 44 million pounds of food, including approximately 21 million pounds of fresh food. This resulted in close to 36 million meals for those in need. That’s the kind of meaningful impact we want to support.

How does the Drive bring the community together and make a difference?
The “Toyota Tundra Food Drive” has become a powerful force for good in the Philadelphia region, uniting the Tri-State Toyota Dealers Association with our local business partners and Philabundance. This annual initiative not only delivers vital nourishment to families facing food insecurity but also rallies the entire community to take action. By leveraging the strength of local relationships, the Drive amplifies awareness around hunger in our neighborhoods. The effort serves a dual purpose: to collect and distribute large quantities of nutritious food and to inspire others to step up and do the same. In 2024 alone, the Drive provided 230,000 meals to those in need. This year’s donation of over 175 tons of food will lead to over 234,000 meals!

For people who want to support the fight against hunger, where should they start?
It all begins with one meal, one donation, one act of kindness. Whether you donate, volunteer, or simply spread the word, your efforts matter. Food insecurity doesn’t just affect physical health; it impacts mental well-being and quality of life. Everyone deserves access to healthy food; every bit of support helps us get closer to that goal. We encourage everyone to join us. Together, we can be the driving force behind lasting change.

Philabundance invites you to join us in our mission. Your support through donations, volunteering, and spreading the word helps us provide meals and hope to those in need. Visit philabundance.org to learn more and get involved.

This post was produced and paid for by Tri-State Toyota Dealers Association