How to Clear Out Your Closet and Donate to Charity at the Same Time

Well, it’s already the middle of September which means we have officially entered the fall season. Now, depending on where you live, (ahem LA) it may not quite feel like fall yet. But that definitely doesn’t stop the stores and magazines from showcasing their latest fall wardrobe options. We don’t know about you but it certainly makes us want to purchase some sweaters and corduroys! If you’re closet space challenged, as so many of us are, it may just be time to clean out some old to make way for the new. Or, perhaps your closet is already filled to the brim and you just need more space.  In any event, a great way to give back in everyday life is to donate your unwanted clothing to someone less fortunate. Luckily, there are many organizations who would be happy to take your clothing donations.

Here are a few organizations to consider when going through your wardrobe….

• Goodwill: A national organization with locations throughout the United States which focuses on helping individuals in need through learning and the power of work. Goodwill accepts all clothing items and even accepts household items and accessories. For a list of acceptable and unacceptable donations, click here. A simple process, all you have to do is drop off your donation at your local Goodwill or you can schedule a pick up (may be fee based depending on area.)  As an added bonus, you can even claim a tax deduction for your donation. For more information on how to properly claim the deduction, click here.

• The Salvation Army: Similar to Goodwill, The Salvation Army is a national organization with locations across the United States and will also accept many items beyond just clothing. All donated goods go to their adult rehabilitation centers which provides assistance for those who have lost the ability to deal with their problems and be independent. Each center offers housing, work, and group and individual therapy. You may drop off your donation at the nearest Salvation Army location or schedule a pick up. For tax purposes, a receipt can be provided and a list of donated item values can be found online.

• Donate My Dress: Do you have a prom, homecoming or bridesmaids dress lurking in the back of your closet you’ll never wear again? Consider donating the dress so someone can have the night of their dreams. While a national organization doesn’t exist specifically for formalwear donations, Donate My Dress is the first national network uniting local dress organizations. To find a local dress donation in your area, click here.

• Working Wardrobes: An organization based in Southern California which empowers men, women and veterans overcoming difficult challenges to enter the workforce and become self sufficient. They provide career training and job placement assistance for all clients as well as wardrobe and styling services. Unlike the previous on this list, donating to this organization requires you live somewhere near Orange County.  Donations may be dropped off at the Working Wardrobe headquarters in Costa Mesa or at Kona Dry Cleaners locations in Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach and Placentia. For donation guidelines, click here.

Whichever organization you choose, please make sure your donated items are only gently used (as in, not stained or broken.) Please also make sure to clean your items before dropping them off at your desired donation center. Afterwards, enjoy the freeing feeling of more closet space and of course, the knowledge your donation was able to help someone in need.

Have you ever donated your gently used clothing before? What are some of your favorite organizations not previously mentioned which accept clothing donations?