How do you write a letter asking for donations of school supplies?

The letter should be personally addressed to its recipient (not a generic 'To whom it may concern' or 'Dear Sir')

The letter should include:

* Who you are (and the group you represent, if any) * What specifically you are requesting and why (money vs in-kind donations, and explain the need) * Who are the recipients who would benefit from the donation (if different from the above statement of who you are) * Why the potential donor would benefit (eg, gratitude, knowledge of doing the right thing, good PR, tax deduction, etc) * Thank the person for their time and for considering this donation, and either say when/how you will be in touch to talk about a possible donation and give your contact information for further questions.

Be sure grammar, spelling and format are all correct in your letter. Do not be overly familiar, using formal speech rather than slang. It is absolutely unacceptable to use emoticons or lol-speak in this request!!!