Before you put out a collection box, find out which products an organizer can use and who will receive them. A small drive that fills a specific need is easier to manage than a large collection of mixed supplies.
Agree on the plan before collecting
Dignity Essentials is a developing SERVE initiative of Wyoming Path & Purpose Foundation. It is intended for individuals and families experiencing financial hardship in Cheyenne. The Foundation is preparing its first distribution opportunities. Supplies are not yet available through this initiative.
Use the Dignity Essentials program details and hygiene drive inquiry to propose your drive. Tell the Foundation who would organize it, roughly how many people might take part, and what dates you have in mind. Ask which products are priorities, whether the Foundation can receive the proposed collection, and how a handoff would be arranged. Wait for confirmation before asking anyone to bring items.
Make the request specific
Choose a short list from the items confirmed for your drive. Possibilities include soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, shampoo and menstrual hygiene products. Ask for new, unopened items. A sign with the item names, collection end date and organizer’s contact is more useful than a general request for toiletries.
For example, a workplace might focus on toothbrushes and toothpaste. Someone who wants to help without buying products could make the sign, check the box or keep the count. Give people a choice about participating.
Keep the count simple
Assign a person to check the collection regularly. Keep items in their original packaging. Record the item, package size and number of unopened packages so a carton of twelve tubes is distinguishable from twelve individual cartons. Set aside opened or leaking items and ask the organizer how to handle them. Do not assemble kits unless the Foundation asks.
Close the drive and arrange the handoff
When collection ends, remove the signs, total the inventory and share it with the Foundation contact. Confirm who will move the supplies and when. Report what was collected once it has been counted. A collection total alone cannot tell you how many people received products.
The Foundation will manage the inventory and distribute products directly to individuals and families. Products will not be transferred to other organizations for redistribution. A business or community group can help collect supplies without becoming a pickup or distribution site.