Burner Gear Giveback (BGG): 2024 Micro-grant update

January 8, 2025

Overview

The Burner Gear Giveback (BGG), is a grassroots initiative aimed at redistributing unused or lightly used camping gear to individuals and communities in need. Spearheaded by a dedicated organizer in Reno, Nevada, the project accepts donations from participants exiting Burning Man. They collect, sort, and distribute essential items to the unhoused and mutual aid groups in Reno, Nevada

This project was partially funded through the BWB Civic Ignition grant program held at the 2024 Multi-Regional Summit in Mud Bluff, NV.

2024 marked a record-breaking year for the BGG, with increased donations, expanded partnerships, and a growing impact on the local community.

Key Achievements

Gear Collected

Thanks to the support of generous donors and dedicated volunteers, the BGG collected and redistributed:

• 32 tents
• 18 sleeping bags
• 9 tarps
• 40+ gallons of water
• 11 cots
• 5 sleeping pads
• 6 air mattresses
• 4 shade cloths
• 7 coats (including warm winter jackets)
• Over 200 pieces of non-perishable food

Additional items included body wipes, hand warmers, bags, coolers, a portable AC unit, and one ‘She-wee’.

Expanded Reach

• Donations were primarily collected at the Reno-Tahoe Airport, facilitated by Burner Express volunteers. Their enthusiasm and logistical support were instrumental in streamlining the process.
• Additional donations came through the Reno Bike Project, which offered a secondary collection point. Future plans may include recruiting a larger volunteer team to bolster operations at this location.

Community Engagement

• Returning donors: One participant from 2023 revisited the donation drive specifically to contribute again, demonstrating the project’s lasting impression.
• Fundraising efforts through a poetry night in August enabled the purchase of promotional materials like stickers to spread awareness about the initiative.

Distribution Efforts

Distributions are ongoing, with a target completion date in March 2025.

• Weekly collaborations with Family Soup Mutual Aid on Tuesday evenings ensure consistent outreach.
• Direct distribution at houseless encampments under the Wells Avenue bridge in downtown Reno has further increased accessibility to those in need.

Challenges and Learnings

• Volunteer Needs: Managing multiple collection sites (e.g., Reno Bike Project) requires a more robust volunteer team to handle logistics. This will be a focus for the next iteration of BGG.
• Gas Donations: While the generosity of donors is greatly appreciated, certain items, such as several gallons of gas, could not be accommodated due to storage and safety limitations.

Gratitude and Acknowledgments

This year’s successes were made possible by the unwavering support of the Burner community:

• Burner Express: Their team not only facilitated the donation drive but also assisted with moving items and directing donors.
• BWB Camp: Special thanks to Tranquility for delivery 8 cots from the BWB Camp, which have already been distributed to those in need.
• Family Soup Mutual Aid: A vital partner in connecting gear with the houseless community.

Looking Ahead

The BGG continues to demonstrate the power of community-driven efforts to address local challenges. The organizer plans to evaluate strategies for improving volunteer recruitment, expanding partnerships, and sustaining this impactful initiative for years to come.

To support or get involved with future BGG efforts, please contact them at here.