‘Tis the Season for Giving
The holiday season can bring with it feelings of thankfulness and a sense of goodwill towards our fellow man. We begin to decorate our homes and prepare for the gifts we will receive from our loved ones. Donating those things we no longer need is a great way to free up needed space and help others at the same time.
Where to Donate
Now that you’ve decided to donate, don’t fall into the trap of driving around for months with a box of giveaway items in your trunk. Instead, depending on the type of items you have gathered, you can take them to one of the following organizations that will use them to help those in need.
Habitat for Humanity ReStore, 1120 35th Street
If you are looking to donate items that would be used in the home building process such as flooring, cabinets, appliances, HVAC supplies, and the like, this is the place for you. If it could be sold in a Home Depot or Lowe’s then it’s a perfect fit for ReStore. Items donated will benefit Tuscaloosa’s Habitat for Humanity.
Tuscaloosa’s One Place, 810 27th Avenue
The goal of Tuscaloosa’s One Place is to prevent child abuse and neglect while improving the quality of life for all members of the community. They are currently accepting donations of school supplies, baby supplies, toiletry items, cleaning supplies, household items.
Salvation Army, 2902 Greensboro Avenue
The Tuscaloosa branch of the Salvation Army is a great place to donate non-perishable food items. Their community food pantry helps those experiencing food insecurity in the Tuscaloosa area. Your donation will help feed families over the holidays.
Temporary Emergency Services (TES), 1705 15th Street
Temporary Emergency Services has 2 different ways you can donate. Individuals can drop off items at the donation site behind the thrift store. If you have an organization that would like to donate on a larger scale they will actually deliver a truck to your location for you to fill. This is an easy way to get your workplace, church, or neighborhood involved in helping others.
United Way, 2720 6th Street
The United Way has a proven track record of making a difference in the Tuscaloosa community. When you donate your gently used items the United Way will make sure your donation benefits those in need.
S.D. Allen Ministries, 1220 17th Street
S.D. Allen Ministries realized that although there are many amazing organizations providing food and clothing, many families were still lacking when it comes to furniture. They offer resources, such as beds and tables, to families in need. They accept donations of gently used furniture and appliances.
Wings of Grace Relief Center, 107 18th Street
Wings of Grace Relief Center is dedicated to helping the hurting in the Tuscaloosa area. They are currently accepting donations of non-perishable food, clothing, cleaning supplies, bath and bed linens, toiletries, Ziploc bags, trash bags, and reusable grocery bags.
What Not to Donate
While each of these organizations will be grateful for your donations, please be aware that there are some things that cannot be accepted. These include damaged items, used mattresses, and chemicals (cleaning solvents, gasoline, etc.). If you are unsure about a particular item, you can check with the organization before you bring your donation to the drop-off site.
Another Reason to Donate
Another reason you may want to donate is for the tax deduction. If you itemize your deductions, you can claim these donations to reduce your taxable income. Items must be donated in “good used condition” or better to qualify.
Donate Today
Now that you have the resources, make Marie Kondo proud and purge all the things you no longer need. Instead of taking up space in your garage or storage shed, your old clothing and household items can help those who really need them. Pay it forward this year and honor this holiday season by giving.
