The Basics

Supply drives are at the heart of Catholic Charities Emergency Services Back to School program, though cash donations are appreciated. They are used to purchase backpacks and supplement what we receive from our generous Central Minnesota Neighbors.

Conducting a drive isn’t difficult, you just need to:

• Get the word out
• Set up collection boxes and collect the supplies
• Deliver the supplies to Emergency Services

Get the word out!

Think about the best way to communicate with the people you intend to ask for supplies.
It might be:
           An email or a letter
            A poster
            A flyer
            A newsletter or bulletin announcement
            An announcement on the public address system
            An announcement from the pastor during services
            A telephone call or mass voice mail message

You'll want to communicate:

• What you're collecting (washable markers, colored pencils, other supplies and/or cash.)
• When you'll be collecting it
• Where the items collected will be going - and why.

Feel free to use any of the sample items we linked to above. Each can be printed in color or black and white. Items that are not intended to be changed are in PDF format.

Set up collection boxes and collect supplies

Make sure the boxes you choose are sturdy. Place them in well-traveled areas, and include a sign that clearly states where the supplies will be going, and the last date to drop off.

Deliver the items to Emergency Service

Emergency Services accepts donations Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Map