Partner Application Process
Terms and Conditions
For over 36 years, Shelter Partnership has distributed more than $342 million in nonperishable goods to hundreds of community partner agencies. In the 2024 fiscal year alone, we reached a record $18 million in goods distributed—an accomplishment made possible through the strength of our partnerships and shared commitment to service.
As we navigate an increasingly complex environment, our operational costs have outpaced the generous support we receive from foundations and individual donors. To ensure we can continue delivering essential goods without interruption, we will be implementing an Annual Partner Handling Fee beginning January 1, 2025.
Annual Partner Handling Fee Structure
- Annual Cumulative Goods valued up to $12,500:
$500 per year - Annual Cumulative Goods valued $12,500 – $25,000:
$1,000 per year - Annual Cumulative Goods valued $25,000 – $62,000:
$2,500 per year - Annual Cumulative Goods valued $62,000 – $125,000:
$3,000 per year - Annual Cumulative Goods valued $125,000 – $250,000:
$3,500 per year - Annual Cumulative Goods valued at over $250,000:
$5,000 per year
New partners will have the opportunity to select the tier that best aligns with their projected annual usage. Payments can be made in full or divided into installments as needed. Please note: acceptance into the program is contingent upon committing to one of the tiers above and submitting the initial payment prior to receiving goods.
By continuing to the eligibility quiz, you are acknowledging that you understand these terms.
Process Information
Thank you for your interest in becoming a Partner Agency with Shelter Partnership. We are honored to support partner agencies and schools that provide critical services to individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty in the Los Angeles area. To ensure the success of our program and uphold our mission, we kindly ask our partners to follow a set of guidelines that protect the integrity of our operations.
Partnership Requirements
Please note that Shelter Partnership is unable to collaborate with:
- Shelters that charge fees.
- Outreach programs without supportive services, such as case management.
- Programs conducting park or street giveaways.
Important Guidelines for Product Donations
- Donations provided to agencies must never be bartered, sold (including via thrift stores or online platforms), raffled, traded, or used for fundraisers. They must also not be given to staff or volunteers for personal use.
- Donations must remain within the United States and cannot be redistributed internationally.
- Agencies are responsible for picking up donations promptly from our warehouse and storing them in a secured, locked area to prevent theft or misuse.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for partnership, agencies must:
- Have been in operation for at least two years.
- Be in good financial standing and receive public funding or foundation grants.
- Maintain good standing with the IRS and the State of California.
- Have had an IRS 501c3 designation and been in operation for at least two years.
Partners are also required to return signed donation receipts and provide thank-you letters for received donations. Additionally, we encourage partners to share the impact of these donations through social media posts, client photos, or gratitude statements.
Shelter Partnership reserves the right to request information or conduct program inspections to ensure compliance with these guidelines. Agencies operating outside Los Angeles County will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Getting Started
To begin the application process, please complete the eligibility questionnaire. If your organization meets the criteria, you will be invited to submit a full application. By proceeding, you agree to adhere to all stated rules and guidelines.