If your storage locker or garage looks anything like the room above, it’s probably time for a purge. And rather than pocketing a few extra dollars on a Craigslist sale, why not consider donating some of your unused furnishings to a local furniture bank helping those in need to live more comfortably?
By default, many of us think of Goodwill for these kinds of donations but you can target your offering to specific causes. The photo above was taken last week at the AIDS Committee of Toronto‘s (ACT) Furniture Exchange. If the storage room looks chock-a-block, it’s only because a new shipment had recently arrived. ACT is always looking for quality used furniture to benefit families and individuals coping with HIV and AIDS.
Says ACT’s Practical Assistance Coordinator Patrick Kearns, “I always ask potential donors whether their item is something they’d consider picking up if they saw it on a curb. If the answer is yes, then we’ll probably be happy to take it.”
Donations should be arranged in advance by calling 416.340.8484 ext. 230. If you’re moving house you can arrange to drop off items between your old and new addresses. ACT doesn’t take large appliances but most other furniture and household items are welcome.
The City of Toronto has compiled an excellent webpage with a wide range of additional furniture donation options and Toronto’s Furniture Bank is also happy to take your gently used furnishings. Fixtures, fittings and building materials can be donated to Habitat for Humanity.
October 14th, 2009 at 8:04 am
Good morning, Chris. Great reminder – thanks for this posting.