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Finding places to donate your unwanted gifts isn’t hard, and it can really make a difference in the lives of those you don’t even know. Instead of leaving things sitting on your shelf, donate them instead!
The next time that you find yourself staring at gifts that you just don’t have a use for, decide to donate them instead. There are so many people that would love receiving a gift or days when they may not have much else to look forward to. The good news is that there are tons of places that you can donate your unwanted gifts! Here are a few ideas to help get you started:
10 Places to Donate Your Unwanted Gifts So They Can Really Make a Difference
These places are great ways to donate your items to those who may have a need for them.
Church
Churches are very active in the community. If you decide to donate your unwanted gifts there, you can be certain that the church congregation will work hard in making certain that they are allotting those items to individuals and families that are in need.
Hospitals
While there are some criteria about what a hospital may take in as a donation, they do accept some things. Simply call and ask them what they don’t accept, so you know before you make the trip.
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes are a great place to donate items from your home. There are many people there that don’t have access to receiving gifts or don’t have family members coming to visit them. Your donation could make a significant impact on their lives.
Homeless Shelters
Find the operating hours for the homeless shelters in your area so you can know when to make a donation drop off. Clothing items are always appreciated and needed, as are blankets and other items to help get through the cold winters.
Schools
For the most part, one of the biggest items that you could donate to the public school would be books. If you have mounds and mounds of books, your local school system may be more than happy to take them off your hands.
Salvation Army
Consider giving your unwanted items to an organization that helps out the community as well. Not only do they put the money earned into hiring workers, but they also do a ton of humanitarian work all across the world.
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross is another great organization to consider donating to as they do a great job of helping out those in need in the local community, too. And they also accept a wide range of items so it’s a safe bet that you can take the majority of your items there.
Local animal shelter
Don’t forget about the pets! If you have any type of blankets or dishes that you received but don’t need, your local animal shelter could use them for sure!
Adoption Shelters for Children
If your town has an adoption shelter or location for children, find out if they are needing any of the gift items that you no longer have a need for. Clothes, books, and toys could all be great items to donate there for the children to have.
Food Pantry
While receiving a food gift basket is nice, it may not be something that you want. Call up the local food pantry and see if it is something that they can gift and give to another family instead.
If you have unwanted items that you know others can and will enjoy, donate them! All you have to do is pick up the phone and contact the businesses to make certain that they are accepting donations. Once you get the green light, you can donate, donate, donate!