Gift-in-Kind
Gift-in-kind contributions are a vital part of our efforts to support those in need. These non-monetary donations provide essential items and services that directly benefit individuals and families trying to survive. By contributing goods or services, you help us reduce operational costs and allocate resources more effectively.
What is a Gift In-Kind?
A gift-in-kind is a donation of physical goods or services rather than money. These contributions can range from everyday items to professional services, and they play a crucial role in enhancing our programs and services. Examples include:
- Food and Beverages:
- Donations of non-perishable food items, snacks, and drinks for our meal programs
- Turkeys for holiday meals
- Clothing and Personal Care Items:
- Collecting gently used men's running shoes of all sizes
- An overstock of clothing from a warehouse sale
- New hygiene items, such as toothbrushes, shampoos, deodorant
- Household Items:
- New sets of in-the-box pots and pans
- New dish sets
- Furniture and Appliances:
- Lawnmowers for our site maintenance
- Industrial washing machines and dryers
- Professional Services:
- Barbering and hair-cutting services
How to Make a Gift In-Kind
Coordinate with Us: To discuss your donation and your tax receipt, please reach out to Sionainn Pryce-Hynes, Senior Events and Community Engagement Coordinator, at spryce-hynes [at] missionservices.ca (spryce-hynes[at]missionservices[dot]ca)
Receipt and Acknowledgment: We will provide a receipt for your donation, which can be used for tax purposes. Your contribution will also be acknowledged on our website and in our newsletters, with your permission.
Gift-in-kind donations are different from second-hand donations to our Mission Store.
While both gift-in-kind donations and thrift store donations involve contributing physical items, there are key differences between the two in terms of purpose, process, and impact. Here's a breakdown to help clarify these distinctions:
Gift-in-Kind Donations: A gift-in-kind donation is a direct contribution of physical goods or services to Mission Services of London. These donations are typically made with the intent of directly supporting our programs, services, or operations, and are often intended to meet immediate needs.
- Use of Donations: Mission Services of London distributes the items directly to those in need, or uses them for our own operations. For example, we can use donated (unopened) toiletries for our participants or use a donated lawnmower for maintenance at one of our sites.
- Receipt and Acknowledgment: Donors may receive a tax receipt for items purchased (i.e., gift cards, toiletries, food items) with the submission of proof of purchase. Mission Services of London may also publicly recognize the donation with the consent of the donor.
Thrift Store Donations: Thrift store donations are contributions of items that will be sold at our Mission Store. The proceeds from the sales are used to fund Mission Services of London's programs and services.
Both types of donations are valuable, but understanding the difference can help you choose the method that best aligns with your preference of support.
Read more about donating to our Mission Store by clicking here.
Thank you.
Your support plays a crucial role in helping us provide essential services, support, and hope to those in need. Whether you’re considering donating, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, your contributions make a significant difference for individuals and families in need.
Thank you for walking alongside Mission Services of London and making a positive impact.