How can I request gifts for a graduation party?

I know it is typically tacky to request gifts for a party. However, I am hosting a party for a high school grad that doesn't have much. There is not much family involvement, and I don't think she has enough money or supplies to start her college career in the fall. In our area, graduation parties are a 'new' thing, and I want to, in the most polite way possible, make sure she is showered with gifts! How can I word the invitation so it doesn't seem rude?

How can I request gifts for a graduation party?
People that you invite to this party would know the financial struggle she is about to face, so there shouldn't be a need to tell them or suggestion of what to get her, it's common sense.
Reply:i would think that everybody invited to a graduation party would know that they should bring a gift. if you feel that they don't then you should call them personally and suggest some gifts that would be appropriate.
Reply:Most people will know to bring the graduate a gift, and they will. I wouldn't include it in the invitiation, but I would probably set up a "money tree" on the "gift table" as people enter. Place a guest book there as well so it's obvious. :)
Reply:everyone will bring something. most people give money or gift cards to a graduation party. i wouldn't put anything on the invite
Reply:I dont know if there is a polite way of stating this on the invitation. My husband wants to do the same thing for his b-day party. I once received an invitation to a birthday and it read: Gift Required





However most people know to bring a gift. Why don't you have the person register at a place and enclose that in the invitation.
Reply:I know some people think its tacky but I think considering the situation you could put a small note at the end of the inviation saying "Gifts to help ___ get started with her new college life are very much appreciated" or something like that.
Reply:Be honest with your guests. In the invitation briefly describe the situation and give the guest some idea of what the young lady needs. People won't consider it rude if they understand that it is you making the request for her. People genuinely want to help, but all too often they are never asked. Gaining support for a young lady that is college-bound should be far easier than for a young man because women typically do the shopping for graduate gift. Have faith in God that he will provide through the generosity of others. Pray about it and let God be your guide. He will never fail you. God bless you for taking the time and effort to bless this young lady---you are not far from the kingdom of God. Jesus loves you.