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In-Kind Support

Federal Funding Primer: In-Kind Support

In-kind support is federal support provided in the form of goods and services, rather than funding.

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This page only includes one funding opportunity.

Federal Surplus Personal Property Donation Program

Agency: General Services Administration (GSA)

Overview

The Federal Surplus Personal Property Donation Program allows state and local government agencies and certain public organizations to acquire surplus property from the federal government. Surplus items available through the program include office furniture, computers, vehicles, tools, medical supplies, and other equipment that federal agencies no longer need. The program helps organizations obtain equipment and supplies they may not otherwise afford, supporting their capacity to deliver services. Items acquired through the program can be used for operational needs, direct service delivery, or even as assistance for families, depending on the nature of the property and organizational policies.

Eligible Services

Through the Federal Surplus Personal Property Donation Program agencies and organizations can acquire a wide range of property to support their services. The following entities are eligible to receive donations.

  • State and Public Agencies
  • Nonprofit educational and public health activities: These entities must intend to use donated property for education or public health purposes. This can include child care centers; schools; health centers, hospitals and clinics; substance use treatment centers; soup kitchens, day centers, and foodbanks; and shelters serving homeless individuals.
  • Nonprofit and public programs for the elderly: Organizations serving the older adults can receive property donations if they receive funds through the Older Americans Act, Title IV or Title XX of the Social Security Act, Titles VIII and X of the Economic Opportunity Act, or the Community Services Block Grant. This can include adult day care; social services; transportation services; nutrition services; legal services; and multi-purpose senior centers

Property availability varies based on what surplus is available from federal agencies, and items are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

How Property is Distributed

The distribution of surplus property is managed through State Agencies for Surplus Property (SASPs), which work with eligible organizations to facilitate the donation process. Public organizations must apply with their state’s SASP to qualify for the program. This process involves demonstrating non-profit status and explaining how surplus property will support the organization’s mission.

Once approved, organizations can browse available surplus items through their SASP. Some states may have an online system for viewing items, while others require in-person visits to warehouses or distribution sites. Organizations acquire the property directly from the SASP, often at no or minimal cost. In some cases, there may be nominal fees for handling or transportation. Recipients must agree to certain usage requirements, such as retaining property for a specified period or using it exclusively for the organization’s mission.

Where to Find More Information

  • General Services Administration (GSA): Detailed information, relevant guidance, and a directory of SASPs is available at gsa.gov/
  • NASASP (National Association of State Agencies for Surplus Property): Offers additional resources and support for organizations interested in federal surplus property nasasp.org/

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