Most Americans like the idea of helping other people. Few would turn down the chance to do something that we know is good for helping military families, for instance. The problem is that many people do not know what they can do that will make a difference. The good news is that we can look no further than our closets and storage areas in our home to find things we can donate to help. When we make household donations we really can make a difference in other people’s lives.
7 Reasons to Make Donations of Clothing and Household Items to Charity:
- Other people may be able to use things that we no longer need. Clothing is a perfect example. If you have children, you know they grow like weeds. If your kids have grown out of their winter jackets and you do not plan to reuse them or give them to a friend of family member, you should consider donating them to wounded veterans charities. Any coats or jackets that your family no longer needs are great for helping military families. Maybe you have lost some weight and want to get rid of clothing that no longer fits, these items can probably be used by someone else. Remember, “one person’s trash is another person’s treasure.”
- You can declutter your space by donating unused items and clothing. Organizing experts recommend getting rid of any apparel item that you have not worn or looked at for at least two seasons. Tim Gunn puts it another way when he reminds people, “It makes sense to hold onto your wedding or prom dress but that ugly turtle neck that you have not worn in two years can go.” You may have clothes, as many people often do, that you bought and never wore. These items are perfect for donations and can be used helping military families.
- You will help the environment by donating your used clothes and other items. More than 10.5 million tons of used clothing is sent to landfills by Americans every year. This means it contributes to global warming and does nothing positive for anyone. You will reduce your carbon footprint and help another person or family by donating your items and clothing to charity organizations.
- You will cut you tax bill. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) treats donations of items to charities for wounded soldiers the same as they would cash donations. You need to keep a decent record of what you give. When you make your clothing donations you can get a receipt. It has been estimated that a used coat for men will be worth about $60 to the IRS and a used coffee maker can be worth between $10 and $15. If you make donations that are worth $250 or more, you will need to send in a receipt for those.
- You support the non-profit when you make these donations. Sometimes products that are donated go directly towards helping military families by giving them the items. Other times, used clothing and household goods are sold in consignment shops that fund the running of the non-profit, which may offer a wide range of services to the community. Either way, you know your donations are instrumental in helping military families.
- It is easy to donate. If you are not sure where or how to donate, many charities have a few different ways that you can get your items to them. There are often donation boxes in shopping centers, drive through donations options and you can bring your stuff into the charity. More and more organizations are offering pick up services for people who want to donate but cannot make it to their location. If you want to maximize your donation, you can organize a donation drive at work and schedule a pick up for that location.
- You inspire others. When people see others doing good (or bad) things, they feel inspired to act the same way. You set a good example for your children and others when you donate your unused clothing and items to charities.
It is easier than ever to make a difference in your community by donating your used clothing and household items.
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