Harbor Freight Tools is committed to giving back to the community and proudly supports eligible non-profit organizations through its donation program. A key component of this initiative is the provision of Harbor Freight Gift Cards, which empower schools, veterans groups, and first responders to access the tools and equipment they need to achieve their important missions. This article will delve into how your organization can benefit from Harbor Freight gift card donations, outlining the eligibility criteria, supported activities, and application process.
Harbor Freight Gift Cards for K-12 Public Schools
Recognizing the vital role of education, Harbor Freight Tools is a strong supporter of K-12 public schools nationwide. Harbor Freight gift cards are available to assist schools in a variety of enriching activities, fostering hands-on learning and improving school environments. Eligible activities include:
- School Raffles and Fundraisers: Boost fundraising efforts for essential programs through PTO/PTA events, booster clubs, and school-wide raffles.
- Classroom Projects & Clubs: Fuel creativity and practical skills development in clubs and classroom projects focused on hands-on learning. Examples include:
- Robotics clubs requiring tools for building and maintenance.
- Skills-based programs teaching carpentry, basic mechanics, or other trades.
- School Improvement Projects: Enhance the learning environment and ensure student safety through facility upgrades. This encompasses:
- Landscaping and gardening projects to beautify school grounds.
- Painting and general repairs to maintain buildings.
- Field and playground improvements for recreational spaces.
- Acquiring storage solutions and safety/PPE items to ensure a secure environment.
- Skilled Trades Education Programs: Invest in the future workforce by supporting programs that introduce students to valuable skilled trades. These programs could include:
- Automotive repair and maintenance training.
- Carpentry and construction skills development.
- Electrical and HVAC systems learning.
- Plumbing and welding programs.
- Manufacturing and agricultural mechanics education.
Alt Text: The exterior of a Harbor Freight Tools store, displaying a wide variety of tools and equipment available for purchase.
Harbor Freight’s commitment extends beyond donations through its significant support of Harbor Freight Tools for Schools, a program of The Smidt Foundation. This initiative champions skilled trades education, recognizing the dignity and importance of hands-on professions. By providing resources and advocating for skilled trades in high schools, they aim to create pathways for students to achieve graduation, secure fulfilling careers, and contribute to the nation’s workforce. For more information, visit harborfreighttoolsforschools.org.
Harbor Freight Gift Cards for Veterans Organizations
Harbor Freight Tools deeply values the service and sacrifice of veterans. Harbor Freight gift cards are offered to non-profit veteran-serving organizations to support a range of activities that directly benefit veterans and honor their contributions. Eligible activities include:
- Raffles and Fundraisers: Raise crucial funds to support veteran programs and services through fundraising events.
- Direct Services to Veterans: Provide essential resources and support to veterans in need through programs focused on:
- Health and wellness initiatives promoting physical and mental well-being.
- Housing assistance to combat veteran homelessness.
- Food banks and meal programs addressing food insecurity.
- Job placement and career development services.
- Recovery programs for wounded and disabled veterans.
- Veterans Memorials: Support the creation and maintenance of lasting tributes that honor veterans’ service and sacrifice.
- Veterans Gardens, Museums, and Cemeteries: Contribute to spaces that provide reflection, remembrance, and education about veterans’ history and contributions.
Alt Text: A group of veterans collaboratively working on a community project, potentially utilizing tools and equipment, symbolizing their continued service and contribution.
Harbor Freight Gift Cards for First Responders
Recognizing the bravery and dedication of first responders, Harbor Freight Tools is proud to support local Fire Departments, Law Enforcement, and EMS agencies. Harbor Freight gift cards can be used to enhance their capabilities and support community safety initiatives. Eligible activities include:
- Raffles and Fundraisers: Support fundraising efforts to acquire essential equipment and resources for first responder units.
- Tools and Safety Equipment: Provide access to high-quality tools and safety gear necessary for effective emergency response and daily operations.
- Improvement Projects: Assist in maintaining and upgrading essential facilities to ensure optimal operational readiness. This includes:
- Repairs and renovations to Police, Fire, and EMS facilities, ensuring they are safe and functional.
Alt Text: Firefighters participating in a training exercise, demonstrating the practical application of tools and equipment in emergency response scenarios.
Donation Request Guidelines and Criteria
Harbor Freight Tools is dedicated to supporting K-12 public schools, veteran-serving organizations, and first responders. While they strive to assist as many worthy causes as possible, it’s important to understand the donation request guidelines and criteria.
Eligible Organizations Must:
- Be based in the U.S.
- Certify and maintain current tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)3 or (c)19 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code (or equivalent).
Ineligible Donation Requests Include Support For:
- Social and fraternal organizations.
- Individuals or scholarships.
- Sports organizations (youth, amateur, or professional).
- Political, legislative, or lobbying organizations.
- Post-secondary or private schools.
- Religiously affiliated institutions, groups, and events.
Key Criteria for Donation Requests:
- Tax-Exempt Status: Applicant organizations must hold current tax-exempt status [501(c)(3) or (19)] for at least one year prior to applying, be listed on the IRS Master File, and operate within the United States. Organizations without this status will be declined.
- Local Impact: Eligible nonprofits must operate locally or as a local affiliate/chapter, directly benefiting the service area of the requesting Harbor Freight Tools facility.
- Request Frequency: To manage the high volume of requests, organizations are limited to one donation request and/or one donation from Harbor Freight Tools per calendar year (January 1 – December 31).
- Discretionary Decisions: Harbor Freight Tools reserves the right to decline any donation request and update guidelines/criteria at any time without prior notice.
- Photo Consent: By applying, organizations consent to being contacted by Harbor Freight Tools to request photos for website and social media sharing and agree to reasonably cooperate with such requests.
Required Documentation:
Please ensure all necessary documentation, including your Tax ID Number, IRS Declaration letter, or NCES ID number, is submitted within 30 days of the donation request. Failure to provide documentation within this timeframe will result in the request being declined.
Ready to Apply?
If your organization meets the eligibility criteria and your activities align with Harbor Freight’s giving focus, you are encouraged to apply for Harbor Freight gift cards. Click the link below to access the online donation request form and begin the application process.
By offering Harbor Freight gift cards, Harbor Freight Tools empowers communities and supports the vital work of schools, veterans organizations, and first responders across the nation.
