The idea for the Donation Station, a mobile trailer for giving back, came from a volunteer group under the Minot Area Community Foundation. Funds were made available by MACF’s Arnold I. Besserud Fund to purchase the trailer and have it wrapped.
The Donation Station promotes giving back in a non-traditional way. Its primary function is to collect donated items, such as food, clothing, and toys, and deliver those items to where they’ll benefit people or organizations in need. If you’re hosting any type of community event where you’ll be collecting items to benefit an underserved population, this trailer should be at your event.
The Donation Station is most widely used each fall during the Donation Station Challenge Grant, which typically runs from September through December. During this annual event, area organizations can use the trailer to collect items for local food pantries, with the opportunity to earn additional grant dollars from MACF’s Arnold I. Besserud Fund in support of their efforts.
Since 2017, and through the end of 2025, the Donation Station has collected over 104,748 pounds of food through community partner food drives. Thanks to the yearly Challenge Grant, funded by MACF’s Arnold I. Besserud Fund, $57,854 has been granted back into local food pantries, helping nourish families across the region.
Usage Terms: The trailer is to be used by nonprofits or groups holding an event that will benefit a nonprofit or group of underserved people within 30 miles of Minot.
Use is contingent on signing a contract and making a deposit with the Minot Area Community Foundation.
A valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and a vehicle capable of towing are all required.
Approved use is decided case by case, and MACF reserves the right to decline use of the trailer for any reason.
Questions: Call the Minot Area Community Foundation at 701-852-0646 for more information.
Donation Station Challenge Grant FAQ: https://www.centerforcommunitygiving.com/partner/donationstation/challengegrant/
Donation Station Tips for Success (PDF): A resource guide for participating organizations — branding tools, story sharing, social media tips, and a link to the full Donation Station Media Toolkit.
Donation Station is one of a few ways to get involved with MACF beyond individual giving. See Give360 for a community-wide giving circle, and Power of the Purse for a giving circle focused on women and children.
