By Jennifer Lyng
Special to Inside
Before filling dumpsters, trashcans or alleyways with things you no longer need or want, help those less fortunate, the environment and yourself by donating these items instead of tossing them. Not only are you providing goods to those in need, but you are keeping these items out of crowded landfills and possibly earning a charitable tax deduction for yourself.
Don't worry about getting that bookcase or box spring in your car—there are organizations that will pick up your goods. Dragging that mattress to the dumpster is much harder than making a phone call. Below are some local organizations that appreciate your donations.
Salvation Army (usc.salvationarmy.org) - Accepts items such as furniture, clothing, household items, kitchenware, mattresses and box springs (only in good condition), appliances (in working order), including gas stoves (but not electric for safety reasons). They do not accept soiled or broken items. There are many drop-off locations throughout the city, but they also have pick-up service. To schedule a pick-up, call (773) 477-1301 if north of North Ave. and (312) 738-4360 if south of North Ave. The number for vehicle donations is (877) 723-2886. The vehicle need not be in running condition. Their Web site also has a donation valuation guide.
White Elephant Resale Shop (childrensmemorial.org/friends/white_ele.asp) - Accepts clothing, furniture, books, toys, jewelry, art and other household items. They do not take mattresses, box springs or electronics more than three years old. Bring items to 2380 N. Lincoln Ave., or call (773) 883-6184 to schedule a pick-up.
Society of St. Vincent De Paul - Accepts clothing, shoes, small appliances, toys, stuffed animals and books. Items can be dropped off at 2145 N. Halsted St., or call (773) 378-8022 to schedule pick-up.
Chicago Abused Women's Coalition (cawc.org) - Requests you check the wish list on their Web site to see what their current needs are. They always need baby clothes, diapers, non-perishable food, cribs and playpens. Items may be brought to 1116 N. Kedzie Ave. Call (773) 489-9081 with any questions. There is no official pick-up service, but they can work on a case-by-case basis for special items.
Bottomless Closet (bottomlesscloset.org) - Accepts professional women's clothing; clean, seasonal and in-style. Clothes must be on hangers, except for shoes and accessories. Donations are accepted on the second Saturday of every month (except September) from 9 a.m. to noon. Bottomless Closet is located at 445 N. Wells St. There's no need to find parking, as volunteers will collect your donations at the curb and provide a tax receipt.
Newberry Library (newberry.org) - Accepts books, but not magazines or condensed books. Donations are accepted 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday, at 60 W. Walton St. Please call their hotline at (312) 255-3501 for more details or to request a pick-up.
Anti-Cruelty Society (anticruelty.org) - This full service shelter accepts items such as towels and blankets, dog/cat toys and food, grooming equipment, leashes, collars and food/water bowls. They also need office supplies and Polaroid film. Donations may be delivered to 157 W. Grand Ave. Please call (312) 644-8338, ext. 301, for more details and check the Web site for updates to their wish list.
The Glass Slipper Project (glassslipperproject.org) - Collects new and almost-new formal dresses and accessories, which they provide, free of charge, to Chicago high school students who are unable to purchase their own prom attire. They are accepting items through April 2, 2004. Check the Web site for drop-off locations and shipping address.
Locks of Love (locksoflove.org) - For those of you considering a major haircut to welcome the warmer weather, you can donate your tresses to Locks of Love. This organization makes natural hair pieces for financially disadvantaged children under 18 who are suffering from long-term medical hair loss. There is a 10 inch minimum hair length. |
