How do I get food donated to feed the needy without being a non-profit orginization?

Answer 1

Set up boxes in areas where people are, or might have food, put a sign saying what cause it's going towards... if people feel your cause is worthy then they may donate food. I don't think an organization that has already collected food is going to give you some though, they collected it for a purpose already.

Answer 2

I consider myself a giving person, but this day and age, I would be weary if someone was "just collecting" foodstuffs for the needy. I would want to know some details.
I think you should try to establish a non-profit to see if you can drum up some interest in your cause.
If you don't have the time to do that, my advice would be to partner with a non-profit that already exists...but one that is not attempting to do the same thing you are.
For example, ask someone at your church, your local YMCA, or community center if you can have donation bins at their establishments. That way, your collection will be semi-tied with an established organization and people may not be suspicious.
Good luck! :-)

Answer 3

It's not hard to set up as a non profit organization. I can't imagine why people would donate items to a "for profit organization".

You really need to charter as non profit in order for this to happen.