Guide to Donating Unwanted Items

In the race to find ever more efficient ways to consume, donate has become a dirty word. It's something you do when you don't want something anymore, not something that makes a difference in someone's life. But the truth is that donating your unwanted items is one of the easiest—and most effective—ways to make an impact in your community. The best part? It doesn't cost anything! Any time is a good time to make a donation! Before you toss that old blender or pair of boots into the trash can, consider these great places for donation:

Goodwill

If you are interested in donating your unwanted items, Goodwill is a great place to start. Goodwill is a charity that takes donations of clothing and household items. Your support also helps Goodwill train community members so they learn the skills they need to find long term employment. If you are looking for more options for donating, read about other places to donate your unwanted stuff below!

American Red Crosss

The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization that provides emergency assistance, disaster relief and education in the United States. The organization also accepts donations of clothing, bedding and household items. However, they do not accept some items such as bikes or baby strollers.

The donation process is simple and can be completed online or by phone. Once you've decided to donate your unwanted items, use this link: http://www.redcrossblood.org/make-donation#donation_form to find out if the American Red Cross will accept them or call 1-800-733-2767 (1-800-REDCROSS) to speak with a representative.

Habitat for Humanity Restore

Habitat for Humanity Restore is a nonprofit thrift store that sells new and gently used furniture, home decor, building supplies, appliances and more. The proceeds from the Restore go back to Habitat for Humanity's mission of building decent and affordable homes in partnership with families in need.

To donate your items:

• Bring your items to the Restore during business hours (10am-6pm Monday through Saturday). You will need proof of donation if you'd like to receive tax deductions.
• Drop off your donations at one of these locations: 4525 Alabama Highway 59 North in Mobile; 2909 South Jefferson Street in Pensacola; 1013 N Main Street in Fort Walton Beach; 2202 W Fairfield Avenue Suite 101A-B in Daphne; 3731 Old Shell Road Suite A1B-C1C in Mobile

Salvation Army Family Store

Salvation Army Family Store donation centers are open to the public, and all donations are tax-deductible. You can drop your items off at the store or have them picked up by a donation truck. To ensure that your items are used responsibly and safely, the Salvation Army asks that you donate clean, dry items in good condition. Donations should be bagged separately if possible so that people can see what’s available for purchase (for example- books in one bag, toys in another).

The Wishing Well

The Wishing Well is a great way to donate new or gently used items, as well as money and other resources. You can also donate your time by volunteering at one of the organization's thrift stores.

Donations are a great way to minimize waste and help others while clearing out your home.

• Donations are a great way to minimize waste and help others while clearing out your home.
• If you're looking for an easy way to make a difference, donating your unwanted items is a no-brainer.
• Organizations often accept clothing, household goods, furniture, books, toys and more.

We hope that this article has helped you decide where to donate your unwanted items. If you want to make a difference in your community, consider supporting one of our recommended charities or organizations.

Beltline and Security Stor-Alls are located in Mobile, Alabama for all of your storage needs! Check out Beltline and Security on Facebook, or visit us online at www.StorAlls.com!