Letting go of things is never as easy as decluttering experts say it's going to be. But when you've reach the point where your closet rod starts to bend and your medicine cabinet is leaning to one side, you have to ask yourself, "Do I really need all of this stuff?"
If you answered a begrudging "no" to that question, then we're here to help you figure out the best place to unload your extra things. There are plenty of charitable organizations, including American Red Cross, Dress for Success and United Way, that will accept gently-worn clothes and shoes as well as unused personal hygiene and beauty products. In most cases, you can even turn your donations into tax savings. It's important to be informed when you're giving back, so be sure to check out sites like CharityWatch.org to find out how your donation will actually reach people in need.
Here's a list of 15 places where you can contribute to a worthy cause by purging your closet.
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This international human rights organization partners with local grassroots groups to meet the basic needs of women around the globe, including supplying sanitary napkins, soap and shampoo. Visit
Madre.org for more information.
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No donation is too small or too large for BBBS, as the foundation turns "old clothing and household items into treasure." Head over to
bbbsfoundation.org for more.
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Donate your gently-used sneakers, boots or flats to this global organization that fights against the effects of poverty. Find out how at
Soles4souls.org.
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The name sums up this charity perfectly, plus the fact that over 88,000 people (and counting) have been able to get back to work thanks to donations received in 2015. For more information, visit
Goodwill.org.
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There's practically a Salvation Army in every city or state. And the charitable organization makes it even easier to give back with its pickup truck service. Get more details at
Salvationarmy.org.
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Sometimes a skirt suit or black blazer is the extra boost of confidence a woman needs to enter the workforce. Get more information at
Dressforsuccess.org.
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Through their job readiness program, the organization provides interview clothing as well as training to men entering and re-entering the workforce. Head over to
Careergear.org for details.
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Prom is a special occasion that no high schooler should miss because they can't afford formal clothes. This organization helps to outfit prom-goers for the big night. Hit up
Fairygodmothersinc.org to get details.
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We can only imagine the stress of planning a wedding while your loved one serves in the armed forces. Luckily, Brides Across America is there to help lend a helping hand by giving military brides a free gown. Get the skinny at
Bridesacrossamerica.com.
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Providing pairs of shoes to the less fortunate throughout the world, this organization brings a new meaning to the phrase "happy feet." Get more information at
Shareyoursoles.org.
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Take a load off your shoulders (literally) by giving away your gently-worn handbags, clutches and purses. Find out how at
Changepurse.org.
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This charitable organization raises money from jewelry donations to benefit animal shelters nationwide. For more, visit
Indigorescue.org.
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Get your friends, family or co-workers involved by hosting an eyeglass drive to donate gently-used spectacles to those with vision needs. Find out how at
Onesight.org.
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As one of the world's largest non-profit organizations, United Way relies heavily on volunteers and donations to help improve the lives of the less fortunate. Visit
Unitedway.org for more details.
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Since 1881, the American Red Cross has led the charge in the United States' humanitarian efforts -- from disaster relief to aiding military families. Visit
Redcross.org for more information.
