A necessary and important part of any church’s operations is fundraising, and sending informative, persuasive church donation letters can help you reach key donors for your fundraising events and programs.
This guide explains how to write a donation letter for a church and provides 14 free templates to help you create letters for your church fundraising activities and events. These templates cover many different situations, including requests for donations to support general, facilities, outreach and other church community programs.
Keep reading for guidelines on how to construct effective donation request letters and to get help creating your own appeals for crucial funding for your church.
Table of Contents
How to Write a Donation Letter for a Church
A recent study found that over 69% of studied individuals donated to churches, nonprofits and other organizations. Donations can be a vital source of funding for many organizations.
So, how do you get people to donate? One way is a church donation letter. It informs readers that donations are needed and appreciated. To write an inspiring donation letter, we've broken down these letters into key parts you should include.
Here's an in-depth look at how to write a donation letter for a church:
Upper-Right Corner
To begin your letter, include a few pieces of information in the upper-right corner, especially if you're sending the letter by mail. These key pieces of information ensure that the recipient knows who is sending the letter and the date it was sent.
You might see these details as minor, but they can truly be impactful to a donation letter. We explain why below.
Your Church's Name and Contact Information
The first item to add is your church's name and contact information, such as a phone number, email address and website URL, if needed. That way, if the letter recipient has any questions or concerns, they don't have to search for a way to contact you; instead, it's the first thing they see.
Date
Including the date is important, so the reader knows when the letter was sent. However, it also provides a time reference to help the reader plan when to donate or attend fundraising events.
For example, if you send a letter with January 12 as the date and the fundraising event is on January 16, it gives the reader two days to decide if they want to attend and an extra day to RSVP yes or no, so the church knows in advance. Giving a date at the start of the letter will also ease any confusion if the event already passed or is coming up.
The Body
The body of your church donation letter should focus on your reader. Tell them why you need donations and where to donate. Here is a breakdown of each part of the body of a donation request letter:
Greeting
After you provide the date, open with a greeting. It can be as simple as "Hello" or something more formal like "Dear" that welcomes your reader into the letter.
Instead of using "Hello member of the congregation," include the member's first and last names to personalize the letter. A good example is "Dear Lynne Rose," which is formal enough that it sounds professional yet inviting.
Line of Scripture
This isn’t a requirement, but it can help. To get the reader in a giving spirit, you could quote a line of scripture that focuses on giving and being charitable. This encourages members to support their local church and its endeavors.
Search for scripture verses that emphasize giving as an expression of God or how supporting the work of the church is gracious. These verses will have the most impact because they show the value of the donation.
Clear Donation Request
After your line of scripture, express the need for a donation. Start by describing all the good things the church has done for the congregation and the community. This will help convince the reader to donate.
Then be sure to inform the reader of the kind of donation you are looking for and why it's needed. For example, if you want a monetary donation, inform the reader how their money will be used. If you want the donation in the form of essential items like goods and foods, explain how the donation will help the community.
Call to Action
At this point, you need to provide a specific call to action. For instance, if you want a monetary donation, provide the next steps the reader can take, like visiting the donation site or giving the donation to a church member.
Highlight these steps or put them in numerical order so the recipient can easily see what to do, where to go and how to donate. Also, provide a deadline so the reader knows by what date they'll need to donate.
To maximize contributions, state that any amount is appreciated. Some people may not be able to give large amounts, so inform the reader that even small contributions of a dollar or two are needed will help the church.
Conclusion
In the conclusion, express gratitude to the reader. Say something like, "Thank you for your time and your continued support." It will make the letter sound genuine and kind rather than a cliché thank you.
Now that you know the key information to include in your donation request letter for church, review these sample templates that you can use for specific types of fundraising appeals.
Free Donation Request Letter for Church Templates
Did you know that the average cost to start a church is $19,815? Whether you’re starting a new church or looking to keep the lights on in an existing one, members’ donations are invaluable.
You also know how difficult it can be to ask your members for money. Having the right church donation letter can make it much easier.
To help you out, we’ve put together 14 free donation request letters for church templates. Keep reading for help getting started on writing your own powerful donation request letters.
General Donation Request Letter for Church
This letter is perfect for a general request. Be sure to personalize it with the ministries you support, ways you provide outreach to the community and any other information you feel would be beneficial.
Template 1
Dear [Church Member's Name],
Your support enables us to provide beneficial programs and spiritual events that lift up our congregation and provide motivation and joy when we need it the most.
We're writing to you to ask for assistance in supporting our mission! Your support will go a long way and will allow us to continue to invest in the church and the community with things like [services you provide].
We want to thank you for your past, current and future participation and we thank you in advance for your donation. If you would like to support us through an online donation, you can do so at [link for donation].
If you have any concerns or questions about donating, please email us at [email address] or call us at [phone number]. In addition, you can stop by the church's main office in person or drop your donation in the collection plate during one of our services.
Thank you for being such a loyal member of the [Church’s Name] community.
Your Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
[Signature]
Template 2
Dear [Church Member's Name]
“Everyone who was willing and whose heart moved him came and brought an offering to the LORD for the work.” (Exodus 35:21)
Here at [Church Name], we're big supporters of the spirit of giving. Over the years, we have taken the funds you have generously donated to [note how you used past funds]. This has led to our church members growing closer to each other, the community and God.
It has also helped us accomplish [things your church has accomplished with past funds].
[Church Member Name], it's our desire to continue growing and serving our community. With our congregation's support and generosity, we can continue to grow our community and spread the Word of God.
If you would like to donate, you can do so online at [link for donations] or through regular collections; simply note what your donation is for on your donation envelope.
We understand that donating money isn't always possible during difficult economic times. However, there are other ways you can support the church, such as [different ways people can donate time instead of money].
Your Brother [Sister] in Christ,
[Your Name]
[Designation]
Building Fund Church Donation Letter
This next letter samples focus on requests for members to support your building fund. Take the time to personalize these letters with your goal and how you will use the new or renovated space.
Also list the donation amounts and what each one can do, from lowest to highest. (Most people typically choose to give the middle amount.)
Template 1: New Building
Dear [Church Member's Name],
We are in the process of building a new [building name]. This building will help us continue reaching our community by providing space for [activities building will be used for].
We also want to create a space where members of our community can come together and grow together. We're looking forward to providing this new space for all of you.
However, we cannot build this new space without you. We need your support through your giving.
Donate $[amount], and you can help us [what that amount of money can do].
Donate $[amount], and you can help us [what that amount of money can do].
Donate $[amount], and you can help us [what that amount of money can do].
You can give online at [online donation link], or you can give through your regular Sunday giving. Be sure to note that you want to direct your donation to the building fund on your tithing envelope.
Thank you for your support of our community as we seek to grow and continue to spread the Word of God.
Sincerely,
[Development Officer or Church Leader’s Name]
Template 2: Building Repairs
Dear [Church Member's Name],
We are in the process of making repairs to our [building name]. This building will help us continue reaching our community by providing a safe and updated space for [activities building will be used for].
The [building name] needs repairs, and we want to continue to use this space by keeping it in good condition. However, we can't do it alone.
We need your assistance to complete the repairs. We're currently asking for donations of time and money. If you have the skills necessary to make these repairs, such as [repairs needed], please reach out to us and let us know if you would be willing to donate your time.
If you're able, please support our efforts through a monetary donation.
Donate $[amount], and you can help us [what that amount of money can do].
Donate $[amount], and you can help us [what that amount of money can do].
Donate $[amount], and you can help us [what that amount of money can do].
You can give online at [online donation link], or you can give through your regular Sunday giving. Be sure to note that you want to direct your donation to the building fund on your tithing envelope.
Thank you for your support of our community as we seek to grow and continue to spread the Word of God.
Your Brother [Sister] in Christ,
[Signature]
Community Outreach Donation Letters
Sometimes when you're writing letters requesting donations, you might not be asking for monetary donations. Sometimes the best way the people of your church can give back is by sharing their time or resources.
This section provides two outreach donation letter templates. One letter focuses on the gift of time and resources, while the other letter requests monetary donations.
Template 1: Event Volunteer Time
Dear [Church Member's Name],
We are excited to announce our plans for this upcoming [holiday or month]. We are in the middle of planning [outreach program, e.g., food drive or homeless outreach].
In past years, our [outreach program] has had an average attendance of [number]. This outreach allows us to continue impacting our community and sharing Christ.
A lot goes into planning a successful outreach, and we're so grateful for our members who volunteer their time and talent. We have many tasks we still need volunteers for.
We need people who can [volunteer jobs that need to be filled]. Are you looking for ways to give back to our community? This is the perfect time to get involved.
However, we understand that time is a valuable commodity. If you don't have the time to give, would you still be willing to support our mission?
We can use the following items [list of items] to help with the outreach. If you would like to give a monetary donation to help purchase these supplies, you can do so online at [donation link]. You can also donate through normal giving; simply note that you want to direct your giving toward [outreach program name] on your tithing envelope.
If you would like to donate the actual supplies, please drop them off in the church lobby in the designated bins. We would love for our upcoming outreach to make a big impact in our community; however, we need your help to make it happen.
Thank you for supporting our community.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Template 2: Event Monetary Donation
Dear [Church Member's Name],
We are excited to announce our plans for this upcoming [holiday or month]. We are in the middle of planning [outreach program, e.g., food drive or homeless outreach].
In past years, our [outreach program] has had an average attendance of [number]. This event allows us to continue reaching out to our community and sharing Christ.
A lot goes into planning a successful outreach, and we're so grateful for our members who volunteer their time and talent. In addition, we're grateful for members like you who help us run these programs by donating money to support them.
We can use the following items [list of items] to help with the outreach.
Donate $[amount], and you can help us [what that amount of money can do].
Donate $[amount], and you can help us [what that amount of money can do].
Donate $[amount], and you can help us [what that amount of money can do].
If you would like to give a monetary donation to help purchase these supplies, you can do so online at [donation link]. You can also donate through normal giving; simply note that you would like to direct your giving toward [outreach name] on your tithing envelope.
We would love for our upcoming program to reach our community and those who need to hear the Word of God; however, we need your help to make it happen.
Thank you for supporting our community.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Christmas Donation Letter
It's the most wonderful time of year and a time of year when churches can have a huge impact. The church donation letters in this section focus on donations around Christmas. Here are some additional Christmas donation letter templates if you need other ideas.
Template 1: Nonmonetary Donation
Dear [Church Member’s Name],
Merry Christmas! We love this time of year as we celebrate the greatest gift of all, the birth of Jesus Christ.
We have been given so much, and we're constantly reminded of how blessed we are. This year, with that in mind, we're planning to give back to our community through [program name, e.g., adopt a family, Christmas angels, Operation Christmas Child, etc.].
For this program to be successful, we need you. We're looking for the following items:
[needed items]
We also need help with the following tasks:
[volunteer jobs to be filled]
If you're willing to donate any of the above items, please drop them off in the church lobby in the designated bin. If you're able to volunteer your time, please sign up at [sign-up method, e.g., kiosk, lobby, church bulletin, website, etc.].
Help us give back to the community this season as we celebrate our blessings together.
[Signature]
Template 2: Monetary Donation
Dear [Church Member’s Name],
Merry Christmas! We love this time of year as we celebrate the greatest gift of all, the birth of Jesus Christ.
We have been given so much, and we're constantly reminded of how blessed we are. This year, with that in mind, we're planning to give back to our community through [program name, e.g., adopt a family, Christmas angels, Operation Christmas Child, etc.].
We recognize that while it's a wonderful time of year, it's also a busy time of year. If you would like to volunteer time or donate items, please contact the church office.
We can also use monetary donations for shoppers to get the needed items.
Donate [enter amount] dollars, and you can help us [list what that amount of money can do].
Donate [enter amount] dollars, and you can help us [list what that amount of money can do].
Donate [enter amount] dollars, and you can help us [list what that amount of money can do].
You can donate online here: [insert donation link].
You can also donate through normal Sunday giving. Please note on your tithing envelope that you would like your donation directed to [Christmas program name].
Help us give back to the community this season as we celebrate our blessings together.
Merry Christmas,
[Signature]
Missions Donation Letter
Whether you're raising money to go on a missions trip or raising money for missionaries, this is a big component of any church. Missions allow you to spread the word, but the cost is high.
Make sure to personalize these sample mission donation request letters as much as possible to make them personal and compelling.
Template 1: Missions Trip
Dear [Church Member's Name],
“Go and make disciples of all nations.” (Matthew 28:18-20) [or another Bible verse that connects with your mission]
It is our belief as a church that missions start in our own backyard. However, we often have the opportunity to go into the world and spread God's Word as well.
As a member of [Church's Name], you know how much we value missions and sharing our faith with underserved populations. On [date], our church will be headed to [location] to share God's Word and [project they will undertake there, e.g., medical missions, building a church, etc.].
We're blessed to have this opportunity, but we need your support. Your support will help with [what the money will be spent on].
Donate $[amount], and you can help us [what that amount of money can do].
Donate $[amount], and you can help us [what that amount of money can do].
Donate $[amount], and you can help us [what that amount of money can do].
Are you willing to help us reach the people in [location]? Please make a donation using our online platform at [donation link].
You can also donate through normal Sunday giving. On your tithing envelope, note that you would like your donation directed to the [name] mission trip.
Thank you for your support in reaching the world with the Good News.
Your Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
[Signature]
Template 2: Ongoing Missions
Dear [Church Member's Name],
“Go and make disciples of all nations.” (Matthew 28:18-20) [or another bible verse that connects with your mission]
It is our belief as a church that missions start in our own backyard. However, we often have the opportunity to go into the world and spread God's Word as well.
We're also blessed to have the opportunity to support missionaries who dedicate their lives to sharing God's Word.
As a member of [Church's Name], you know how much we value missions and sharing our faith with underserved populations. On [date], [missionaries’ names] will be visiting our church and sharing how they have been impacting the community in [missionaries’ location].
At this time, we will be taking a special offering to continue supporting their efforts. Your support will help with [what the money will be spent on].
Donate $[amount], and you can help us [what that amount of money can do].
Donate $[amount], and you can help us [what that amount of money can do].
Donate $[amount], and you can help us [what that amount of money can do].
Are you willing to help us reach the people in [location]? Please make a donation using our online platform at [donation link].
We will also take a special collection on the day of the missionaries’ visit. Please consider giving as we seek to reach the world.
As always, thank you for your support in reaching the world with the Good News.
Your Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
[Signature]
Don't Forget a Thank You
Don't forget to thank your congregation for their investment.
It's always humbling to see how church members give when they have the opportunity. It's important to acknowledge your donors and how they contribute to your community and a thank you message is an ideal way to do so.
With that in mind, we didn't just create church donation letter templates for donation requests; we also give you different responses. This is also a great way to provide tax information at the same time.
Template 1: Specific Collection
Dear [Church Member’s Name],
We hit our goal! Thank you for your contribution to [project name].
We received your donation of $[amount]; this donation helped us [what you put the money toward]. Because of your donation, we were able to [statistics you have from the event, e.g., reach X number of people].
Your support was critical in helping us to continue growing our community.
Your donation is tax deductible for income tax reasons. Keep this letter for tax purposes.
Thank you for your continued support of our mission. We are truly blessed by your participation.
Gratefully,
[Signature]
Template 2: End of Year
Dear [Church Member's Name],
Thank you for your support of [Church's Name] over the past year. Your giving has enabled our church to continue to keep the lights on and reach the community around us.
Thanks to your generosity, over the past year, we've been able to:
[things your church has accomplished in the past year]
Your support was critical in helping us to continue growing our community.
Your donations are tax deductible for income tax reasons. We've attached a summary of your giving from the past year for when you file your taxes. Keep this letter for tax purposes.
Thank you for your continued support of our mission. We look forward to heading into [new year] with you and continuing to share the Word of God with our community.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Donation Letter for Church Event Template
Use the first donation request letter for church event template to help you write a compelling letter that will encourage readers to donate. There's also a template to help you write donation letters to businesses. Keep reading for church donation letters that will help you generate the support you need.
Template 1: Church Event (Individual)
Dear [Church Member's Name],
Greetings! We hope you and your family are doing well. We're writing to you today about a donation request for [Event Name].
[Event Name] is an annual celebration that is hosted by [Church’s Name]. Every year, it brings hundreds of people from across the community together in celebration and support of our shared values. This year's event will be held on [date] at the [location] at [time].
This event is open to anyone in the community, so please feel free to invite any friends or family members who are interested in attending. The event will feature an exciting lineup of speakers who will share how their lives have been impacted by [Church’s Name] and the community we're building together. There will also be a variety of enjoyable activities, including:
- [Activity 1]
- [Activity 2]
- [Activity 3]
We hope you'll consider making a donation to help cover the costs associated with this spectacular event. We still have a long way to go until we reach our fundraising goal of $[goal amount], but with your donation, we can make sure that everyone has an unforgettable time celebrating what makes us special as a community.
If you're interested in supporting this important cause, please visit [website], where you can donate online using a credit card or PayPal account.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this letter. Your generosity will not go unnoticed—you will be recognized by name on the official program for all attendees to see!
If you have questions about this fundraiser, please contact us at [phone number]. We look forward to seeing you at [Event Name]!
Sincerely,
[Author's Name]
Template 2: Church Event (Business)
Dear [Company Name],
I'm writing to you as a representative of [Church Name]. Our mission is to provide food, shelter and support services to those in need in our community. We've been operating since [year].
We are currently hosting an event called [Event Name] on [date] at [location]. This event is open to the public and will include food, entertainment and games for all ages. All proceeds raised from this event go directly toward supporting our community outreach programs.
We would greatly appreciate any donation you can make toward this cause. Our goal is to raise $[goal amount]. Your gift would mean so much to us and our community.
If you have questions about this event or would like to get more information, please call our office at [phone number] or visit [website]. Thank you for your support, and we hope to see you at the event!
Sincerely,
[Author's Name]
Looking for Church Letter Templates to Fit Any Situation?
Without a framework or example, crafting an appeal or thank you message can be challenging. We hope this guide and templates help to explain how to write a donation letter for a church and make this task easier for you. But there are many more samples available if you need them.
We built a complete guide that offers 105 letter samples and templates for nearly any situation, and specific guidelines to help. May your fundraising efforts be a success!
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