This is just a short note to ask advice about how to raise money for costs of sending quilts for Oz Comfort Quilts as well as a way to raise money for costs of toiletries etc. for the homeless.
I am hoping someone can help me to know how I can raise money via the blog.
I was going to add a Donate button which will direct any donations via Paypal but I didn't proceed as I heard that Paypal can freeze the money if you aren't a registered non-profit organization and you need to raise $250 before you can access any funds.
I only want to set up a donate button so that people can just donate their change or small amounts as this would be a huge help and these small amounts would add up to enough to cover postage costs of quilts to places such as Christchurch. It costs about $14 per quilt and this doesn't sound like much but when I send so many quilts it certainly adds up.
I don't like to ask for money normally as people have already spent money in sending the QAYG blocks etc but as I fund all the other costs, apart from donations, it can become an expensive process.
Any advice re Paypal or whether or not I should just provide my bank details via email for direct payment into a special account, would be very helpful.
Hugs, Jan Mac
New Arrivals.
1 day ago
My thoughts: Paypal will take a commission.
ReplyDeleteYou could open a dedicated bank a/c, a separate one, and provide those details for direct deposit.
Also just ask outright - for a cheque or money order if people feel inclined. Even small notes such as $5,$10 or $20 can be popped inside the fabric in an envelope.
Ask the bank for advice.
I'll be busily stitching and knitting up some things for you this weekend, will send some spare change with it, in an envelope.
I like Kaite's thoughts - I am more than happy to bank money directly or send you $$'s in an envelope and I'd like to believe others would also.
ReplyDeleteCount me in too, Jan!
ReplyDeleteI have had bad experiences with sending handmade gifts via Australia post so I would not send you cash, but more then happy to direct debit your bank account or post a cheque with my blocks. I was wondering recently how you paid for the postage and assumed you had sponsors locally. I would skip the fundraising (take too much time away from your sewing) and just ask for donations on your blog AND let it be known locally that you are seeking financial assistance. Try Rotary, Lions, CWA, your quilt group and state guild, anyone that can regulary pass the hat around/be a launching point for free advertising for your cause. Start the ball rolling by letting your local newspaper and radio station know what you do and they can point people to your blog for details of bank accounts and see what you do weekly, for months and years - all for other people! Good luck and happy quilting Sue SA.
ReplyDeleteAnd some of us in the U.S. would like to donate too - how would we do this? Just let us know!
ReplyDeleteI think the least we all can do is stop using your address as a mailbox for finished items you would have to mail to another destination. You have given Cat's address for Christchurch; it will cost me the same to send directly to her as it would cost to send them to you. I'll be sure to mention I'm one of your sub-contractors. - I think local visibility would be the best way to find sponsors. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteThank you for your considered comments. I receive donations locally from time to time but as I usually supply organizations which are already having trouble accessing funds I find that they are unable to assist with delivery costs. Luckily I have a means of delivering quilts to Qld at no cost to me and postage within Vic isn't expensive. I've decided to try a Donate button through Paypal and hope that works. I've been reading as much as possible about it and I think that if I don't apply as a non-profit organization I will incur some fees of approx 3% but should be OK.
ReplyDeleteMany thanks for your help, Hugs Jan Mac
Hi Jan, i've tested out your donate button and it seems to work OK. It was very easy to donate via PayPal, great idea.
ReplyDeleteHave a good weekend, k.
Hi Jan
ReplyDeleteI've donated via your donate button and it was VERY easy!
I hope this is successful for you .. .. .. I will mention on my blog also.
Love
Cat
Hello Jan,
ReplyDeleteHave just used the Paypal button - very easy. I'm so glad you shared this problem with us. It is what we are here for to help as much as possible to get as many quilts out as possible to those in need. You are a doing a wonderful service and I appreciate the time you put into all the projects.
best wishes, Margaret