United Community Action Network

Tips for planning a food drive

• Contact us for the latest information and so we can be ready for your donation

  • In Douglas County, call (541)492-3524
  • In Josephine County, call (541)479-5556

• Select a leader or a leadership committee

• Set a goal

• Set a specific start date and finish date

• Obtain an official commitment

  • A matching contribution from the company - a dollar amount for each pound of food or a dollar amount for each barrel filled during the drive.
  • Direct involvement of senior management (partners could serve breakfast to the top food-raising department or group).

• Call UCAN Food Shares for information on possible delivery or pick up of food collection barrels

• Plan something to catch attention and build excitement

• Have a party!

  • The admission price can be a bag of food, contributions can be rewarded with raffle tickets. One local office sets up a mini-golf course through the hallway - food items are the 'green fee' to play in this tournament.

• Challenge departments or other groups

  • The most food items or pounds of food per person wins. Add fun categories such as most protein items or the largest food item.

• Build Momentum

  • Keep a running total of food donated and post it in the break area, near elevators or any high traffic area.

• Get the word out

  • Distribute grocery bags with the food flyer attached
  • Collect money for a group shopping trip at a nearby store