5 Fundraising Ideas to Help Your Community Even When Money Is Tight

Recently, I took a look at our donation pile, the food from Amazon, men’s wear, and other supplies, and noticed it was looking slim. Women’s clothing is stocked and ready to go, but snacks have not been replenished in months. Even though we have sent out emails, we have only had one or two donations come in.

The truth is, it takes a whole community to provide for those who need it most. We understand that groceries are expensive, gas prices fluctuate, and those electric bills seem to creep higher every month. We get it. But our neighbors are in need too, and we rely on your support to meet those needs.

Whether it is a ten dollar donation, purchasing a personal care pack from our Amazon list, or volunteering your time, every little bit makes a difference. As school schedules shift and fall routines settle in, we do not want you to forget how important your support is. Here are five fundraising ideas to help you make an impact, even if your finances are stretched.

1. Give Through Virtual Fundraising Ideas

Online giving is one of the easiest ways to help. Our donate button makes it simple to give from anywhere, and even small recurring donations add up quickly. You can also share our needs on social media, invite friends to support our Amazon wishlist, or create a peer to peer fundraiser online. A quick text or post can inspire others to get involved and multiply your impact without requiring extra time or money.

2. Donate Items You Already Have

When finances are tight, generosity does not have to stop. Look through your home for very gently used items or even things that are brand new with tags still on them. These items are especially helpful because they can go directly to someone in need. Gently used coats, men’s clothing, shoes, and personal care items are always appreciated. This is one of those fundraiser ideas on a budget that still creates a big impact. Instead of letting good clothing sit unused, pass it along so a family can benefit right away.

3. Shop With Purpose

If you are already shopping on Amazon, consider adding a few personal care packs, snacks, or other items directly from our Amazon list to your cart. We keep this list updated with the items that are most needed, so you can feel confident that your purchase will go exactly where it is needed most. Shopping with purpose means combining your everyday errands with generosity, without an extra trip or guesswork. Even a single pack of socks or snacks purchased from our list can be the exact item someone has been praying for.

4. Offer Your Time and Talents

Sometimes the greatest gift is not money, it is time. Volunteers help us stock shelves, organize clothing, greet families, and make sure everyone feels cared for. A few hours of your time can save us hundreds of dollars in labor and create a welcoming environment for those who visit us for help. Whether you enjoy organizing, sorting, or talking with others, your unique skills are a blessing to the entire community.

5. Spread the Word

If finances are tight, you can still help by raising awareness. Share our posts, invite friends to volunteer, or encourage your workplace, church, or school to host a collection drive. The more people who know about the needs in our community, the stronger we all become. Simple actions like forwarding an email, posting a reminder, or talking about our work can lead to new partnerships and unexpected support.

Your generosity, whether it is ten dollars, an item from our Amazon list, or a couple of hours of your time, helps us make sure no one leaves empty handed. Every act of kindness matters. Thank you for continuing to stand with us and for being part of a community that cares deeply for others. Together, we can keep shelves stocked, families supported, and hope alive, even during challenging times.

Your Turn

We invite you to be part of this mission today. You can donate online to help us meet urgent needs or shop from our Amazon list to send supplies directly to our shelves. Every gift, big or small, changes lives.