Tips for School Fundraising

Tip 1: Choose non-food items when possible

It is best to raise money without selling food, especially foods high in sugar, fat and salt and with few nutrients (e.g. chocolate bars, cookie dough, etc.). In order for children and youth to eat less of these foods, we need to make them less available. Also, parents often take these products to their workplace to sell, which contradicts healthy workplace initiatives. There are many easy-to-run fundraisers that support children’s health and make money! Check the Helpful Links on the Show Me the Money badge page for ideas.

Tip 2: If food is chosen, it should be safe, inclusive, tasty and nutritious

Nutritious food such as vegetables (e.g. onions, potatoes), fruit (e.g. apples, oranges, grapefruit), fresh herbs, spices, cheese, dried beans (e.g. soup mix), pasta, etc. supports health and wellness and can be sold as a fundraiser. Do not sell muffin/cookie dough, chocolate bars, pizza kits, candy (e.g. candy-grams), freezies (e.g. in hot weather), or baked goods (e.g. bake sales) as these items do not support health and wellness

Tip 3: Let others help

Ask for volunteers (students, parents, others) to help plan and organize fundraising activities from the beginning. Contact organizations in your community to see if they can support your fundraising in any way (e.g. providing donations for an auction)

Tip 4: Spread the word!

Fundraising efforts are more successful when people are well informed ahead of time. Advertise in advance through newsletters, posters, social media, the school website and community venues (e.g. libraries, community centres, grocery stores, etc.).