That’s up to you! Ideas include:
- free household items give away
- free clothing give away
- free delivery for large items
- a free fun day (carnival)
- a free BBQ (be mindful of cultures)
- a free concession or baked goods table
- a free car wash and/or oil changes
- a free outdoor concert
- free haircuts, face painting or simple manicures
- free bike repairs
- free bagged lunches
- free breakfast
- free balloons for kids
- free “prom” station
- free shoe shinning
- free free prayer booth, Bibles or church tours
- free book give away (be mindful of content)
- free Guitar lessons
- free button sewing/mending
- free movie in the park with free popcorn
- free beach towels and sand toys for kids
- free draws for special things like tickets to a game or event
- free pony rides or animal farm
That depends on what you plan for the day and what items and services your volunteers are able to donate.
It will take one key person who can then gather a volunteer team dependent on the size of the event.
We can help you get started as soon as you sign up. Ideally, churches will sign up as soon as possible since there are some aspects of the event that can benefit from additional lead time.
The Big Give happens rain or shine! We recommend that every event plan includes a rain location in case of inclement weather.
It’s not encouraged, as most people will only take as much as they can carry or as much as their car can hold.
It will come from anywhere and everywhere! The easiest start will be to ask your congregation and have them ask their friends and neighbours.
You can begin collecting items as early as you can accommodate them. For most churches, we recommend collecting about two weeks before the event as not to interfere with regular church programs. You will need a team to go through all the donations to ensure they’re appropriate to give away.
There are several places to give away what is left: The Salvation Army, Bibles for Missions, and any of your local second-hand stores or non-profit organizations that accept the type of items you have. Garbage and e-waste will also need to be disposed of appropriately. It is suggested that leftover clothing/shoes/small items be brought to SA thrift stores, Value Village, etc in your area. Leftover computer/electronics should be brought to local businesses that accept for disposal or refurbishing. A team member should take a little time to determine where these businesses are in your local area before the big day, and have someone designated to transport these items.
If possible, it would be great to have volunteers with vans or trucks to help transport larger items to people’s homes.
While you are welcome to have some free resources about your church or ministry programs if anyone asks, please be mindful that the goal of the day is not to convince people to attend your church or programs.
The Bible tells us that it is more blessed to give than to receive. Your church will be part of meeting some very practical needs in your neighbourhood, and people may ask you to explain why you would hold this type of event. You will also be symbolically joining with other churches and ministries in your city and across the country in a radical act of unity and love.
Of course! Our team will provide you with the resources and support to make your event a success. We’re here to help with planning, to foster idea sharing between churches, and to supply compelling advertising videos and materials.
Yes, but only if asked by an event attendee. Some churches will choose to have a prayer tent or station as a way of opening that conversation.
Please see the following link for details regarding items that are restricted
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/cps-spc/pubs/cons/garage-eng.php
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/cps-spc/pubs/cons/garage-eng.php