Goodwill
Goodwill takes clothing, shoes, accessories, books, furniture, small appliances, household items, CDs/videotapes/DVDs/records, linens, and also sporting equipment.
In exchange, it offers a tax deduction, but no payment in exchange for what you’re donating. Instead, they donate the money to support “people who face all kinds of obstacles to employment”, such as lack of work history, disabilities, limited education, language barriers, and so on.
Goodwill accepts almost any kind of donations, but prefers those items that aren’t ripped or stained that work, and have all their parts and pieces.
Goodwill can’t take recalled products or items that don’t meet the current safety standards. The majority of locations will let you bring items during their operating hours, and some might even pick up some items, but you should call your local Goodwill to find out if you can donate.
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army takes clothing, furniture, automobiles, household goods, and appliances. There are some locations that would also accept cars, trucks, boats, RVs, and many other things.
Instead, you get a tax deduction, as Salvation Army doesn’t offer any kind of payment for your donations. However, the money goes to “Adult Rehabilitation Centers, where those who are struggling with dr*g abuse and alcohol are getting a second chance at life.”
The Salvation Army has become famous for its Christmas Red Kettle bell ringers, which can be seen collecting small cash donations outside stores, throughout the holidays.
However, did you know that you can donate all the goods to the Salvation Army? The organization has a great system with local drop-off locations and filling out online forms. However, they have the right to refuse any items that might seem unacceptable.
Volunteers of America
Volunteers of America accept mostly clothing and household items that are still in good working condition. Even if VOA doesn’t offer any kind of payment in exchange for your donations, it will offer a tax deduction.
All thrift donation purchases automatically go to all VOA programs in Ohio and Indiana, providing housing for homeless people, veteran housing assistance, but also mental health treatment, and residential reentry services for all kinds of ex-offenders.
VOA accepts donations in most of its thrift stores throughout Ohio and Indiana. It’s extremely easy to donate, as all you have to do is to bag the items and leave them somewhere outside, where the drivers can easily spot them.
