Host a Drive for HoopsHome
Rallying your community to support international athletes is easier than you think — and the impact is real.
Whether you're organizing a Welcome Home Box supply drive, collecting blankets, or fundraising for HoopsHome's programs, hosting a drive is a powerful way to engage your school, workplace, team, or community while directly supporting athletes who need it most.
Ways to Host a Drive
Collect Essentials for Arriving Athletes
Welcome Home Boxes provide comfort and care to international athletes from the moment they arrive in the U.S. Host a drive to collect the items that go into every box.
What to collect:
Snacks (granola bars, crackers, chips, nuts, candy)
Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, shampoo, lotion)
Warm items (socks, blankets, stocking caps)
Lip balm
Gift cards ($10-$25 to grocery stores, fast food, Target, Walmart)
HoopsHome gear (if available)
How it helps:
Every box reminds an athlete they're not alone from day one.
Provide Warmth and Comfort
Blankets are included in every Welcome Home Box and provided to athletes staying in HoopsHome housing. A blanket drive ensures every athlete has something cozy and their own.
What to collect:
New or gently used blankets (throw size or twin size)
Preference for warm, soft materials
How it helps:
A blanket becomes a piece of home that athletes can take with them wherever they go.
Raise Funds for HoopsHome Programs
Not all drives need to collect physical items. Organize a fundraiser — whether through your school, workplace, sports team, or community group — to support HoopsHome's housing, mentorship, and emergency support programs.
Fundraising ideas:
Bake sale or concession stand proceeds
Team fundraiser (donate a portion of registration fees)
Company matching campaign
Online peer-to-peer fundraising
Athletic event proceeds (tournament, 5K, charity game)
Dress-down day or spirit week donations
How it helps:
Funds go directly toward safe housing, emergency support, and mentorship for athletes in need.
How to Get Started
Step 1: Choose Your Drive Type
Decide whether you'll collect Welcome Home Box items, blankets, or fundraise.
Step 2: Pick a Timeline
Set a start and end date (2-4 weeks works well for most drives).
Step 3: Spread the Word
Use social media, flyers, emails, or announcements to let people know what you're collecting and why.
Step 4: Set Up Collection Points
Create drop-off locations (office, school, church, gym, home) where people can donate.
Step 5: Deliver Items or Funds
Contact HoopsHome to arrange drop-off or delivery of collected items. For fundraising drives, send proceeds directly to HoopsHome.
Step 6: Celebrate Your Impact
Share results with participants — let them know how many boxes their donations will fill or how their fundraising will support athletes.
Questions About Getting Involved?
Not sure which option fits your availability or skills? We're happy to talk through how you can best support HoopsHome's mission.
Contact us:
Email: info@hoopshome.org
Phone: [Phone Number]
Help Us Keep the Door Open
HoopsHome Housing is only possible because of people like you — those who believe international athletes deserve safety, stability, and a true sense of home while living far from family.
Whether you're interested in becoming a host family, supporting our mission, or learning more about how you can help, there's a place for you in this protective network.