Got gently used clothing that you don’t really wear anymore? If you’re anything like most Americans, then the answer is probably yes. According to the Council for Textile Recycling, Americans are buying and discarding more clothing than ever. Between 1999 and 2009, the amount of post consumer textile waste grew by an alarming 40%, and this amount continues to increase.
The average American is not only buying more clothes, but they are also throwing more away. It’s been estimated that Americans discard roughly 82 pounds of clothing per person each year. Not only does this put an enormous burden on landfills, but all those articles of used clothing could put to better use.
Did you know that clothing donations are an excellent way to make charitable donations and support those in need, such as military families? And not only do clothing donations make a difference in the lives of those who need them the most, but they also support environmental sustainability. When you decide to donate your clothes, you’re doing your part to create positive change in a number of different ways.
The only question is, where should you donate clothes? Here are a few great examples of organizations that accept clothing donations:
Charitable organizations
There are a number of large international and national charitable that will happily accept clothing donations. These organizations that accept clothing donations are best for families or large groups, such as a business or corporation, who want to donate a large volume of clothing at a time. Clothing drives are a great opportunity to connect with others and work towards a common goal. This helps to create a stronger sense of community and raise awareness about the importance of clothing donations. You can trust these organizations to distribute clothing donations where they are needed the most.
Homeless shelters or halfway houses
While there are many organizations that accept clothing donations, homeless shelters and halfway houses are also in need. Call local homeless shelters, halfway houses, and other support homes in your area to see if they are in need of clothing donations. Donating to homeless shelters is a great way to get clothing directly to the people that need it the most. You may also want to contact women’s shelters or home’s for foster children to inquire about clothing donations.
Churches and religious institutions
Your local church and other nearby religious institutions are a great alternative to organizations that accept clothing donations. Even if you aren’t a member of a local church or don’t belong to a congregation, you can still make donations. Churches are actively involved in the surrounding community, and often host food and clothing drives to combat local poverty. Donating clothing is an excellent way to support these initiatives and make an immediate impact in your community.
If you don’t have a lot of time to make a donation, many organizations that accept clothing donations also offer donation pick up services that make donating easy and convenient. Regardless of where you decide to make a clothing donation, your decide to give back will go a long way.
