Have a question about giving, volunteering or getting support? Start here. If you don’t see your answer, reach out and we’ll be happy to help.
Giving
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes. Wayside Uplift Initiative Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN 33-4101573), so donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Online donors receive an emailed receipt right away. Keep it for your tax records.
How is my donation used?
In 2025, 77% of everything we spent went directly to programs like our Christmas Toy Drive and Thanksgiving Food Drive, and our all-volunteer leadership was paid $0. See the full breakdown and our IRS filings on our Donor Policy & Financials page.
Is it safe to donate online?
Yes. Online gifts are processed securely by our donation partner, Zeffy. We never see or store your card or bank details. Zeffy may ask if you want to add an optional tip to support its free platform. That tip goes to Zeffy, and you can set it to $0.
Can I donate food, toys, coats or school supplies?
Absolutely. Donated goods are a big part of our seasonal drives. Please contact us before dropping anything off so we can confirm what is needed most and arrange a time. Items should be new or in good, clean condition.
Will my employer match my gift?
Many employers match their employees’ charitable donations, which can double your impact. Ask your HR or benefits team about a matching gift program and give them our name and EIN: Wayside Uplift Initiative Inc., EIN 33-4101573.
Can I give anonymously?
Yes. Just let us know when you donate or contact us, and we will keep your name private. We never sell or share donor information.
Volunteering
How do I become a volunteer?
Fill out the form on our Volunteer page. We will reach out with upcoming opportunities, such as our seasonal giveback events and community meal days.
Can my business, church or group partner with you?
Yes, we love working with partners. Groups can sponsor an event, host a collection drive or volunteer together. See our current partners, then contact us to start the conversation.
Getting support
I need help. How do I get support?
You don’t have to do this alone. Call us at (800) 718-7929, email info@waysideupliftinitiative.com or send a message through our Contact page, and we will connect you with the right program, whether that is food, job support, youth programs or seasonal help. You can also see step-by-step sign-up instructions for every program on our Get Help page.
What programs do you offer?
Our programs include Feed the Community, Job Placement, Seasonal Giveback (back-to-school backpacks, Thanksgiving meals, and holiday toys and coats), S.T.A.N.D. for teens, and W.O.W. Women of Worth for girls and young women. See them all on our Programs page.
Where are you located, and who do you serve?
Our office is at 109-20 Union Hall Street, Jamaica, NY 11433. We serve youth, families and seniors across New York City, and our Feed the Community program brings hot meals to a different borough each season.
How do I find out about upcoming events?
Check our Events calendar and sign up for our email newsletter at the bottom of any page. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
About us
Who runs Wayside Uplift Initiative?
We are led by a volunteer board and team. Wayside was founded by women whose bond began decades ago at the Wayside Home School for Girls in Valley Stream, N.Y. Meet everyone on our Team page.
How do you protect my personal information?
We collect only what we need, never sell or rent your information, and handle children’s photos only with parent or guardian permission. Read our Privacy Policy for details.