Hi, I'm not sure if this is the right place to post this but here it goes...Christmas is coming up and I started thinking about all of the children who would not get presents because of being in places such as a shelter etc. I read on here somewhere on how people of been donating cakes to these types of places for childrens birthday's and other occasions. My question is, that if I am not licenced, can I donate cakes to places such as shelters? (I live in Minnesota). Thanks in advance to anyone who can help!

it would probly be good to be licensed (just in case, some people want to make a quick buck) but I'm not a caterer and take meals to needy groups of people. I just call up and ask if it's ok and if anyone has any allergies.

I think it is a fantastic idea and dont really see any problem since you are donating not charging. 2 years ago I did a penny drive for a month at my local legion and made 10 christmas baskets for a woman's shelter I put in toilet articles and a hat scarf mit set as well as a box of chocolates it was a big hit. God bless you for being so thoughtful I think it's wonderful

I own and operate a childrens charity called Chain of Hearts, Inc. we promote adoption awarenss and child abuse awareness. Our main function is to provide fun parties for children in the foster care system and adoption system. Speaking for my organization I would accept a cake for a party, or childs birthday any time. Our christmas party this year will be hosted by a local SWAT team at their facility. We will be having about 500 children. I am so involved in other areas I could not bake for that many kids... but I wish I could. Ask the charity if they would be interested in a cake I'm sure they would be.

I think that is an excellent idea. I would just call ahead just to make sure it is okay, some states have weird laws.

The whole point with donating is that you are donating. No, you do not have to be licensed. But, on the other hand, if the shelter would like to purchase cakes from you, then you would have to talk with them about that. I work for an elementary school, and we donate alot to shelters. It's all good!

It's like making a cake and droping it off at a firehouse or police station. Its a gift of kindness.

By the way if you want a kick... bake a cake, cookies or cup cakes, and drop it off at a firestation and tell them thanks for all they do. I think you will enjoy the reaction...

Wow McDuff that is a really great idea. I never thought of that before!

I am in Minnesota and most shelters require a license. I used to work for a the convention center and we used to donate but they were very choosy about what was given.
I would look into private homes that house homeless. It can be a liability and the rules are very clear here. You can make cakes and sell them but you cannot advertise. But if something happens you can guarantee that it will come full circle.
Not to scare you! Check out place like Dorithy Day and stuff.