I have great success with emailing and applying for donations online. I have emailed donation requests to the "contact us" address if there was no direct link for donations. I usually cut & paste the letter in the body of the email and attached a pdf copy of the letter on school letterhead. Some companies have requested a copy of the letter via snail mail, but those have been few and far between.
Earlier have posts have mentioned chastising & digs at those who do their soliciting online. My committel has been very supportive and appreciative of my efforts, and recognize my contribution as a valuable tool to add to our arsenal. In addition, I have been able to secure donations that would not have been accessible face to face such as Disney tickets.
This site provides a wealth of information, thanks to all of you who have contributed!!
Can anyone who has received a Cabot Creamery donation please give me a detailed description of what you received? I received a notification that I would receive a $60 box, but they did not describe what would be included. I need to create a list of all items before this box arrives (3 days before the event). Thanks!
I also wanted to add to contact your local Houlihan's Restaurant. The one in my area was VERY generous with meal cards and a prize restaurant voucher for $50.
I have never once used letterhead stationary and I have had great success. I do include the tax ID number, the website address, school email, etc... No one has ever asked me for letterhead either. I make my own letter with the school address at the top. Perhaps if you include everything else, then it is not so important.
I faxed the Christmas tree Shoppe. They had the address and fax number for donations on their website. I emailed the manager of Texas Road House. I always include our letter in an attachment. Most local places have an email contact on their website. I have two active children and seem to always be on the run and also work part time so being able to send out emails later at night while watching television or sticking something in the fax machine between acticities is a great option.
Even when you e-mail you will need to either attach a letter on letterhead or have your tax identification information.
I e-mailed & regular mailed so many companies I can't remember which were which of hand. E-mail anyone you can think of. It costs nothing. I received at least 10 donations from e-mailing companies which advertised in my local parenting magazines and newspapers as well as some who were offering groupons in my area.
