Organized Donation Drives

Interested in Organizing the Collection of Donated Relief Supplies? In the wake of disasters, many groups and individuals wish to collect needed relief supplies for survivors. Volunteer Florida thanks these volunteers for their caring and willingness to help. Without a doubt, disaster relief and recovery is a long-term process, and the assistance of organizations in collecting relief supplies is important!

It is important that organizations who plan to engage in collecting items follow the general guidelines below to ensure donated items get where they are most needed. Volunteer Florida encourages community- and faith-based organizations to partner with organizations in disaster-impacted areas that are able to receive, unload and distribute collected items.

How to Collect Relief Supplies

• Collect only those items listed on the Items Needed List. (This list will be updated daily as needed post disaster)
• Organize collection point(s) in the local community:
  -Provide a point of contact at collection point(s)
  -Provide a method of accepting the donated items
  -Provide security of donated items from theft and elements
• Provide a plan to identify, sort, package and transport the donated items to Donations Warehouse(s)
• Organizations accept responsibility for the collection, security, handling and transportation of donated items.

Sorting and Packing Guidelines

• Sort all like items together, i.e. cans of green beans in one box, insect repellent in one box, etc. Limit the box weight to 30 pounds
• Tape boxes securely
• Label boxes, on two sides, with a description and quantity of contents. Click here to download box labels. These labels are designed to print on Avery Standard Adhesive Labels #5164.
• Place boxes on pallets and secure with shrink-wrap or straps
• Provide detailed inventory of boxes and description of donated items
• Ship boxes to pre-arranged recipient. Please do not ship donations without confirming the destination and need.