Gift Gathering Parties

Building Exceptional Baskets & Auction Packages Together

Each grade at St. Benedict School will host a Gift Gathering Party to help build the baskets and silent auction packages for the St. Ben’s Bash. Families will be invited to bring items aligned with their grade’s theme. All contributions — big or small — help create exciting, high-value baskets for the event.

How Gift Gathering Parties Work:

1. Hosts pick a date & location: Homes, restaurants, bars, parish halls, backyards, or classrooms work perfectly.

 Gift Gathering dates and locations will be announced soon. 

2. Families bring a donation matching the theme: Any dollar amount or item size is appreciated!

3. The Planning Team assembles baskets: Donations are combined into high-value, beautifully packaged raffle and auction items.

4. Items are featured at the St. Ben’s Bash: Showcasing contributions from every grade reinforces community and raises more money.

Themes by Grade

Below are each grade’s official theme along with suggested donation ideas.

PK3 – Family Game Night

Perfect for fun-loving families and cozy evenings in.

Suggested donations:

• Board games
• Puzzles
• Card games
• Popcorn, candy, and movie snacks
• Cozy blankets
• Family movie gift cards (AMC, North Park Theater, etc.)

PK4 – Arts & Creativity

A colorful, hands-on basket that always attracts bidders.

Suggested donations:

• Craft kits
• Paints, brushes, canvases
• Sketchbooks and markers
• DIY craft sets
• Tickets to local arts centers
• Gift cards to craft stores

Kindergarten – Summer Fun

Everything needed for warm weather, outdoor play, and sunshine.

Suggested donations:

• Pool floats and toys
• Beach towels
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Water balloons
• Lawn games
• Gift cards for ice cream shops or local summer spots

1st Grade – Buffalo Pride

Showcasing everything we love about our hometown.

Suggested donations:

• Bills, Sabres, or Bisons gear
• Buffalo-themed décor
• Local chocolates or snacks
• Restaurant gift cards
• Tickets to local attractions
• Buffalo artwork or boutique items

2nd Grade – Book Lover’s Basket

A cozy, thoughtful basket for readers of all ages.

Suggested donations:

• Children’s books or chapter books
• Reading lights
• Bookstore gift cards
• Cozy socks or blankets
• Bookends or decorative bookmarks

3rd Grade – Outdoor Adventure

All the gear and inspiration for exploring the outdoors.

Suggested donations:

• Hiking accessories
• Water bottles and backpacks
• Camping supplies
• State park passes
• Outdoor safety gear
• Nature kits or binoculars

4th Grade – STEM & Science Fun

Always a hit — science and STEM activities draw strong bidding.

Suggested donations:

• STEM kits
• Robotics toys
• Science experiment sets
• Building blocks
• Tickets to science museums
• Educational gadgets

5th Grade – Kitchen Essentials

Great for families, aspiring chefs, and home cooks.

Suggested donations:

• Baking sets
• Kitchen tools and gadgets
• Small appliances (air fryer, blender, etc.)
• Gourmet spices or mixes
• Aprons and oven mitts
• Gift cards to cooking stores

6th Grade – Spa & Self-Care

A relaxing, feel-good basket that always gets attention.

Suggested donations:

• Lotions and bath products
• Candles
• Spa or salon gift cards
• Robes, slippers, or cozy socks
• Beauty tools and skincare sets
• Wellness accessories

7th Grade – Backyard Party

Perfect for spring and summer — ideal for entertaining.

Suggested donations:

• String lights or lanterns
• Lawn games
• Cooler bags
• Grill accessories
• Outdoor blankets
• Beverages or gourmet snacks

8th Grade – Wine & Cheese Night

A classic basket that draws top bids every year.

Suggested donations:

• Bottles of wine
• Craft beers or local spirits (optional)
• Cheese board sets
• Gourmet crackers or snacks
• Corkscrews, stoppers, or bar tools
• Local winery or restaurant gift cards

Would you like to a make a donation? Fill out the form below!