Planning a successful school food drive can be a very rewarding experience. You may be worried about the logistics, but with some pre-planning your event can be completed with ease.
Choose a Date
Before you begin telling everyone about your food drive, be sure to select an appropriate date. Be sure to research other events in your area as well as school events so nothing interferes. It is a good idea to contact your local food bank to see when they need supplies the most. Most people think of hosting food drives during the holiday season, but food banks typically face their greatest need during the summer months.
Decide Which Items to Collect
You need to decide on specific items to collect once you’ve finalized your date. It is best to tell people exactly what to donate instead of just asking for a general donation. This way, you can help food banks get exactly what they need. This is especially important during the summer when they may be low on products and high on demand. Be sure to check with them if they have any other special requests. If you want to offer a generic donation option, consider requesting cash donations. This will allow the food banks the most flexibility. Cash donations are important because food banks can use this anytime of the year.
Set a Goal
It is best to set goals for your school food drive. Use visual aids to help show your donors the progress you’ve made. This will encourage your participants to donate more if you are nearing your deadline and haven’t met your goal. It will also keep everyone excited and maintain the relevance of your food drive. The most popular visual aid is the thermometer.
No matter how many donations you receive or how many funds you raise, it is important to know how magnificent it is you made an effort. You have educated your participants on hunger and raised awareness about how to give back. This in itself is a slam dunk success for you and your school.
Move For Hunger can hep your plan, promote and coordinate your food drive!
