Host a Drive

Collection Drives for Clothing, Essential Items, & Food

Holding your own DIY clothing, essential items or food collection drive for Brother Benno’s is a wonderful way to support our mission. The following are a few FAQs. If you have a question about something not addressed below, please send an email to info@brotherbenno.org.

Do I have to inform Brother Benno’s of or register my drive with Brother Benno’s?

We do not require you to register your drive with us; however, it is a good idea to contact us to see what our highest priority needs are and how these fit with the drive you're planning on holding.

When your drive has ended and you are ready to deliver the items you collected, it is especially important to connect with us to arrange for the best drop off day(s) and times. Unfortunately, we cannot pick up the items you have collected for us; however, we can plan to help you move items from your vehicle into our warehouse.

I have never held a drive before. Is it difficult?

Holding clothing, essential items, and food drives are not difficult if you have a plan and follow a few simple steps. These are:

General collections of clothing, essential items and food are welcomed and much appreciated year-round, keeping in mind that some items are needed more during specific times of the year while others are needed regularly. For example, men’s and women’s underwear are needed year-round while warm scarves and beanies are needed more frequently in the winter. Check our urgent and recurring needs list to help you in setting up your drive.

The more people who get involved, the quicker you can accomplish tasks and make your donation drive a success. More team members also mean it will be easier and faster to sort and pack goods, as well as clean up after the donation event.

Letting others know and “advertising” your drive is key. Reach out to family and friends for help in spreading the word. Post fliers - there are many free online, iOS and Android apps that will help you create the perfect flier. Most even provide templates you can modify with ease. When you are done with entering the details, just download, print, and distribute your flier. Two of our favorites are Adobe Express and Canva. And, if you are a social media user, this is a great way to get the word out as well.

If you are collecting items that require shopping for them, consider setting up your own Amazon Wishlist (or directing them to Brother Benno's Wishlist) to streamline the donation process. For example, Brother Benno’s can only accept new undergarments and toiletries.

Well before your drive ends, figure out how you are going to get the donations from your collecting area to Brother Benno’s. Will all the donations fit in your car, or will you need to call in reinforcements? Also, contact us in advance so we can let you know the best days and times to deliver your donations. While we are unable to pick up your drive donations, we can make certain we are here to help you move your donations from your vehicle to our receiving warehouse.

  • Types of Drives

    Clothing, essential items,
    food and drinks

  • Contact Us

    (760) 439-1244

  • Guidelines

    Please reach out early to schedule
    drop-off of food and goods. 

General Guidelines for item collection

Clothing

In general - clothing should be gently-used, clean, free of stains and/or tears. Undergarments – we can only accept new, packaged underwear.

Toiletries & Hygiene Products

Adult Diapers – packaged. Please contact us for more guidance on opened packages.
Toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant – travel-sized unused, unopened packages

Food & Water

Canned, bottled, and packaged non-perishable items that have not expired are accepted. Packaged foods must be in original, sealed packaging.

I have more questions. How do I contact you?

The most effective and efficient way to get answers to your question(s) about holding a donation drive is to send your question(s) to us at info@brotherbenno.org.

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