With nearly 85% of discarded textilesending up in landfills, imagine the difference you could make by taking a more charitable route. Now, you must be wondering where to donate clothes. Don’t worry!
In this article, we're diving deep into:
Places to donate clothes during your big move.
Charities and non-profit organizations that warmly accept clothing.
Online platforms dedicated to clothing donations.
Local thrift stores where your clothes can find a new home.
Step-by-step guidelines to ensure your donation process is smooth.
P.S. Need help with your move? Find the best moving companies in your area on Top Move's platform. Just answer a couple of questions, schedule your pick-up and drop-off, and get affordable quotes sent directly to your email inbox. You can chat with vendors on the platform, read their reviews, and place a protected order all on the platform. Try it today.
Before simply tossing your clothes into a donation bin, invest time in choosing the ideal local outlet. Here's why and what to look out for:
Organization Credibility: Ensure your contributions benefit genuine causes. Green flags include transparency about fund allocation, positive community reviews, and a clear mission statement. Red flags might be a lack of contact information, negative public feedback, or recent establishment without verifiable impact.
Donation Process: Charities vary in their acceptance methods. Some offer home pick-up, while others may have designated drop-off points. A few might even have restricted times for donation. Assess your schedule and preferences: If you're busy, a charity offering pick-up might be best. If you're looking for convenience, a local drop-off point might be your go-to.
Specific Needs: Charities cater to varied beneficiaries. Some focus on providing winter clothing for the homeless, while others might assist job seekers with professional attire. Align your donation with the specific needs of the charity. It ensures your contributions have the most direct, beneficial impact.
For a smoother donation experience, consider these resources:
Online Directories: Platforms like Charity Navigator provide detailed insights into local charities, complete with reviews and ratings. PickUpMyDonation.comis another platform connecting you with eager local nonprofits and thrift stores.
Social Media: Tune into community groups for updates on local clothing needs and preferred donation methods.
Community Boards: These hubs, both digital and tangible, can shed light on local charities, their activities, and immediate needs.
Word of Mouth: Personal recommendations often yield the most trustworthy insights.
Besides monetary contributions, 79% of Canadians donated clothing, toys, or household goodsto charities or non-profit organizations. Your clothing donations are part of a broader effort to support those in need nationwide.
Goodwill is among the most recognized organizations. They accept donations of various types, which are then resold in their thrift stores. The proceeds are primarily used to fund job training and employment programs.
Goodwill places a strong emphasis on sustainability and employment, aiming to create opportunities for individuals seeking financial independence.
Donations Goodwill Accepts:
How to Donate: Find a local Goodwill store or a drop-off location centre in your area.
255 Horton Street East, 2nd Floor, London, Ontario N6B 1L1
Mon - Sun, Open 24 hours
519-850-9000
The One Warm Coat charity provides free coats, jackets and other outerwear to children and adults in need. Last year, over 260,000 people benefited from their donations. By donating your gently used coats, you'll be helping someone stay warm during the winter months.
Donations One Warm Coat Accepts:
How to Donate: To donate, you can locate a coat drive in your vicinity or drop off your coat at one of One Warm Coat's nonprofit collaborators.
2443 Fillmore St., P.O. Box 380-5363, San Francisco, CA 94115-1814
9AM - 5PM, Mon - Fri
877-663-9276
Dress for Success is a fantastic organization that gives donated business casual and work-appropriate clothes to women needing interviews and jobs. Not only can you make a difference in someone's life, but donations to Dress for Success are tax-deductible.
Donations Dress for Success Accepts:
Professional Clothing
Financial Contributions
Donate Gift Cards
Volunteer Time
How to Donate: Look for the Dress for Success at a free donation pickup centre near you.
1567 Baker Road, Casselman, Ontario K0A 1M0
9AM - 5PM, Mon - Fri
+14169016022
Soles4Souls is a nonprofit organization based in Tennessee with a global reach. They collect gently used shoes and distribute them to people in need worldwide. Also, Soles4Souls supports micro-enterprise efforts by helping people start businesses by selling donated shoes. Donors can benefit from tax write-offs, making the donation process mutually beneficial.
Donations Soles4Souls Accepts:
Shoes
Clothing
Corporate Partnerships
Financial Contributions
Donate Gift by DAF
How to Donate: Donations can be made at drop-off locations or shipped for free with Zappos for Good. In each donation box, donors should include the donor form.
ValueVillage is a multinational organisation in Canada, the United States, and Australia. They work in partnership with local charities to whom they purchase donated second-hand clothing and home goods. While the proceeds from sales go to Value Village, their business model aids their nonprofit partners in generating funds for community initiatives.
Donations ValueVillage Accepts:
Clothing
Shoes
Household Items
Small Furniture
Electronics
Bedding and Linens
Toys and Games
Housewares
Books
Sports Goods
How to Donate: They have thrift stores in multiple locations across Canada, making it convenient to find one near you.
1520 Steeles Ave W, Concord, ON L4K 3B9, Canada
10AM - 9PM Mon - Fri, 10AM - 7PM Sat - Sun
+19057617990
The Canadian Red Cross partners with GreenDropto sell donated clothing and household items, using the funds for disaster relief aid. Donating to the Canadian Red Cross helps those in need and contributes to a worthy cause.
Donations Canadian Red Cross Accepts:
Blood and Platelet Donations
Vehicle Donation
Fundraising
Volunteer Time
Donation of Products
Financial Donations
Accepts Cryptocurrency
How to Donate: To donate, just go to a drop-off location or set up a pick-up.
6 Pl. du Commerce, Verdun, QC H3E 1P4, Canada
8:30AM - 4:30PM
+18003637305
St. Vincent de Paul is a worldwide nonprofit organization that has existed since 1833. Donations to St. Vincent de Paul are sold in thrift stores at a lower price, making them accessible to those in need. Unsold items are recycled, ensuring that nothing goes to waste.
Donations St. Vincent de Paul Accepts:
Clothing
Furniture
Household Goods
Food Donations
How to Donate: You can donate clothes and other items at a nearby St. Vincent de Paul thrift store.
2463 Innes Road, Ottawa, ON K1B 3K3
9AM - 5PM, Mon - Fri
613-837-4363
United Way is a renowned organization that focuses on helping people in need. Donations made to United Way go to their stores, where individuals can purchase clothes at a low price.
Donations United Way Accepts:
Clothing
Charitable Gift Annuities
Stocks and Securities
Monetary Donations
Volunteer Work
Bitcoin Donation
How to Donate: Donate by dropping off at one of their locations or scheduling a pick-up.
701 N. Fairfax Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
9AM - 5PM, Mon - Fri
(703) 836-7112
Edmonton Donations is a non-profit organization that supports single mothers and their children in Canada. The organization offers a free home pick-up service for clothing donations, as well as donation bins across Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, and surrounding areas. The donated items are used to fund the work of MOMS Canada, which is a non-profit organization that supports single mothers and their children locally. Edmonton Donations accepts gently used clothing, shoes, and accessories.
If you’re looking to donate your clothing items in Canada, Edmonton Donations is a great option. You can schedule a free home pick-up online or find a donation bin near you. Your generous donations make a big difference in the lives of single moms and their children locally.
Donations United Way Accepts:
How to Donate: Schedule a free convenient home pick-up through their website. Select any date that works for you
MOMS Canada is a non-profit organization that supports single mothers and their children in Canada. The organization offers a range of programs and services to help single mothers overcome the challenges of raising children alone. One of the ways MOMS Canada raises funds is through clothing donations. The organization has partnered with Western Textiles and Recycling Inc., an Alberta-based company, to collect gently used clothing, shoes, and accessories. The donated items are then recycled and converted into funds that support the work of MOMS Canada.
If you’re looking to donate your clothing items in Canada, MOMS Canada is a great option. You can drop off your clothing items at any donation bin across Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, and surrounding areas. Alternatively, you can schedule a free home pick-up service by registering online at edmontondonations.ca or calgarydonations.ca or info@vancouverdonations.ca. Your generous donations will help support the work of MOMS Canada and make a difference in the lives of single mothers and their children.
Spruce Grove, AB T7X 3A2
+17809601554
Diabetes Canada is a non-profit organization that supports people with diabetes and prediabetes in Canada. The organization has been collecting gently used clothing and small household items for over 30 years to fund important research in the fight to end diabetes and send kids to D-Camp. Diabetes Canada has more than 3,500 donation bins and an active free home pick-up service in communities across Canada (excluding Quebec). The organization accepts clothing, textiles, small household items, books, electronics, and more.
If you’re looking to donate your clothing items in Canada, Diabetes Canada is a great option. You can donate your items at one of their many locations across Canada or schedule a free home pick-up service. Your generous donations will help support the work of Diabetes Canada and make a difference in the lives of over 11.9 million Canadians with diabetes or prediabetes. For more information on how to donate, visit their website at declutter.diabetes.ca.
522 University Ave #1300, Toronto, ON M5G 2R5, Canada
Monday, 8:30 am–4:30 pm | Saturday-Sunday, Closed
+18002268464
Horizons for Youth is a non-profit organization that provides essential services to people experiencing poverty and homelessness in Toronto. Horizons for Youth offers a range of services including meals, shelter, clothing, and addiction recovery programs.
If you’re looking to donate your clothing items in Canada, Horizons for Youth is a great option. The organization accepts gently used clothing, shoes, and accessories for youths aged 16-24. Your generous donations will help support the work of Horizons for Youth and make a difference in the lives of youths experiencing poverty and homelessness. For more information on how to donate, visit their website at horizonsforyouth.org.
422 Gilbert Ave, York, ON M6E 4X3, Canada
Monday-Sunday, Open 24 hours
+14167819898
If you are looking for a convenient and hassle-free way to donate your clothing and other items in Vancouver, you should check out Vancouver Donations. This is a service that will pick up your donations from your home or office for free and deliver them to local charities that need them. You can donate clothing, shoes, accessories, books, toys, electronics, furniture, and more. All you need to do is fill out an online form and schedule a pick-up time that suits you.
Vancouver Donations is not only a great way to declutter your space and help the environment but also a way to support various causes in your community. Some of the charities that benefit from your donations include Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver, the Canadian Diabetes Association, the Developmental Disabilities Association, and Helping Families in Need Society. By donating through Vancouver Donations, you are making a difference in the lives of many people who are facing challenges such as poverty, disability, illness, or isolation.
5118 Joyce St, Vancouver, BC V6R 4H1, Canada
Monday-Thursday, 10 am–6 pm | Friday-Saturday, 10 am–4 pm | Sunday, Closed
+16043522951
Safetynet Children & Youth Charities is a non-profit organization that provides clothing and household items to low-income families and individuals in need. They operate a clothing bank, a furniture bank, and a linen bank, where people can access free or low-cost items. They also offer emergency assistance, such as food vouchers, bus tickets, and referrals to other agencies.
Safetynet Children & Youth Charities accepts donations of gently used clothing, furniture, linens, and other household items. SafetyNet has a dedicated collection for the provision of diapers for individuals experiencing poverty and lacking access to these essential resources. They also welcome monetary donations and volunteers. By donating to them, you can help them support the most vulnerable members of the community and reduce the environmental impact of waste. You can visit their website to learn more about their programs and how to get involved.
166 South Service Rd E, Oakville, ON L6J 2X5, Canada
Monday-Friday, 9:30 am–1:30 pm | Saturday, 9:30 am–1 pm | Sunday, Closed
+19058457233
Give Back Box is a non-profit organization that aims to reduce waste and promote sustainability by encouraging people to donate their gently used clothing, jewellery, and other household items. The organization has partnered with over 100 charities to make it easy for people to donate their items. The process is simple: fill an empty box with your donations, print a prepaid shipping label from the Give Back Box website, and ship the box to one of the non-profit partners for free.
Give Back Box’s mission is to make it easy for people to donate their items while reducing waste and promoting sustainability. The organization accepts gently used clothing, jewellery, and other household items. They have partnered with over 100 charities to make it easy for people to donate their items. The process is simple: fill an empty box with your donations, print a prepaid shipping label from the Give Back Box website, and ship the box to one of the non-profit partners for free. By donating your items through the Give Back Box, you can help reduce waste and promote sustainability while supporting a good cause.
5419 Hollywood Blvd. Suite 160, Los Angeles, CA, 90027
Monday-Friday, 9:30 am–1:30 pm | Saturday, 9:30 am–1 pm | Sunday, Closed
+1 310-954-2003
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Vancouver Island is a non-profit organization that aims to help children and youth in the community. The organization only accepts gently used women's clothing. They operate the Recycled Clothing program to provide employment for people with Employment Barriers and Disabilities and to help fund their mentoring programs for Children in the community. Donations can be made during regular office hours Monday – Friday from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM at their location in Nanaimo, BC. They also have a boutique called Big Deals Boutique that offers a wide variety of gently used clothing for women. All funds received from the boutique sales go right back into programs offered to children and youth in the community.
By donating your gently used items through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Vancouver Island, you can help fund their mentoring programs for Children in the community while supporting a good cause. The more donations they receive, the more children can be served.
2030 Northfield Road Nanaimo British Columbia Canada V9S 3B8
Monday-Friday, 10 am–4 pm | Saturday & Sunday, Closed
+1 250-756-2447
Since 1964, the Kidney Foundation of Canada has remained steadfast in its commitment to three core principles: innovation, leadership, and collaboration. The organization has established itself as the foremost charity dedicated to alleviating the challenges posed by kidney disease. Its endeavors encompass the provision of financial support and promotion of pioneering research aimed at enhancing prevention, treatment, and eventual eradication of the disease. Additionally, it actively engages in the facilitation of educational programs and support systems designed to preemptively address the risks associated with kidney ailments and empower affected individuals to optimize their well-being. Advocacy efforts are also directed towards promoting enhanced access to top-tier healthcare services, while concurrently fostering widespread awareness and endorsement of kidney health and organ donation initiatives.
Fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion, the Kidney Foundation of Canada espouses the principle of equal treatment and valuation of all individuals, irrespective of their diverse backgrounds. It remains unwavering in its stance against all forms of discrimination and maintains strict adherence to the provisions outlined in provincial Human Rights legislation
880-5160 Decarie Blvd
Monday-Friday, 8:30 am–4 pm | Saturday & Sunday, Closed
514-369-4806 / 1-800-361-7494
The Scott Mission operates as a Christian ministry dedicated to demonstrating mercy and love through its various initiatives. The organization is driven by a compassionate commitment to meeting the diverse needs of individuals, striving to foster holistic well-being encompassing spiritual, physical, and emotional aspects of their lives.
Supported by private funding, the Mission maintains a strong workforce of over 160 dedicated professionals serving across multiple locations. These include the central facility at 502 Spadina, housing the Welcome Centre and Men's Shelter, along with the Family Centre in East York situated at 346 Spadina. Moreover, the Mission oversees operations at the Collingwood Retreat Centre and a Summer Camp in Caledon, extending support and provisions to homeless individuals, low-income families, as well as children and youth.
At the core of its operations, the Mission holds firm to the principle of serving Jesus Christ as the ultimate spiritual guide and authority. They remain steadfast in their commitment to effective stewardship, translating the teachings and spirit of Christ into tangible, impactful actions. This commitment is exemplified through their comprehensive range of spiritual and social services, tailored to address the specific needs of men, women, and children, while remaining responsive to the available resources at hand.
502 Spadina Ave., Toronto, ON M5S 2H1, Canada
Monday-Friday, 8:30 am–5 pm | Saturday & Sunday, Closed
+14169238872
MCC Thrift, founded in 1972, has a rich history rooted in the visionary efforts of a group of pioneering women from Altona, Manitoba. Recognizing both the local community's needs and the global potential of secondhand goods, the organization was conceptualized with a mission to make a positive impact.
Initially focused on global distribution of gently-used clothing, Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) later adapted its strategy in response to escalating shipping costs. Shifting their approach, they redirected resources towards procuring items locally at a significantly reduced expense.
Over five decades later, MCC Thrift stands as a testament to its enduring commitment to providing global relief, fostering development, and advocating for peace, all under the guiding principles of Christ. With a widespread presence spanning more than 85 operational shops across Canada and the United States, the organization continues to make a tangible and significant impact on a global scale.
59 Church St W, Elmira, ON N3B 1M8, Canada
Monday-Wednesday: 9 am–5 pm | Thursday-Friday: 9 am–8 pm | Saturday: 9 am–5 pm | Sunday: Closed
+15196698475
Le Chaînon is a pivotal organization in Quebec dedicated to supporting women facing hardship. It stands as the largest facility for women in distress, providing a sanctuary that opens doors to hope and assistance without judgment. The organization offers comprehensive services, including discreet counseling and aid for women over 18. Le Chaînon's foundation actively fundraises to ensure the sustainability of its mission, fostering innovative projects that galvanize community support. Additionally, their thrift store sells donated items, contributing crucial funding to their cause. Le Chaînon's commitment to women's welfare is a testament to the power of community and compassion in action.
8601 Boulevard Saint-Laurent, Montreal, Canada
Open 24/7
+1 514-845-0151
Local thrift stores can also be excellent places to donate clothing, especially when moving to a new area. Donated clothing items are priced affordably, making it easier for individuals and families to save money and access quality clothing without breaking the bank.
Local thrift stores often support area-specific causes, from local schools to pet shelters. In addition to thrift stores, consider donating to local shelters and churches. They often have clothing drives and can put your donations to immediate use.
Most local thrift stores have a straightforward donation process:
In-Store Drop-offs: Bring your clothing directly to the store.
Specific Needs: Some stores may have particular needs or guidelines for donations, so it's best to call ahead.
These platforms typically involve mailing your items to them. Some options include:
Give Back Box: It allows you to fill a box with clothing and other items, print a free shipping label, and send it to them. They will then distribute your donations to various charities.
Threadcycle: This online platform connects you with local charities and organizations that accept clothing donations. You can request a free shipping label and send your items to the chosen charity.
GiveBack Canada: This online platform lets you list items you want to donate. Local charities will then contact you if they are interested in your items.
Second Closet: It’s a storage and logistics company that offers clothing donation services. They provide bins, and once they are full, they pick them up and distribute the items to local charities.
CharityWishList.ca: This website connects you to local charities needing specific items. While it's not an online donation platform, it can help you find charities that offer pick-up services.
Social Media & Online Marketplaces: Use Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji, or Freecycle to give away clothing items for free. These platforms make it easy to connect with needy people.
Now that you know where to donate your clothes, here are some tips on how to decide what to donate:
Make three piles of clothes: Categorize them into Keep, Donate, and Throw Away sections. This will help you categorize your clothes efficiently.
Ensure Quality: Donate only clean, hole-free, and gently used clothes. While charities appreciate your donation, it's essential to donate items that are still in good condition and can be used by others.
Check Charity Guidelines: Some charities have specific guidelines or restrictions, so it's best to know what they can take before donating.
Clean the Clothes: Always wash the clothes before packing them.
Fold Neatly: Fold the clothes to make them easy to sort.
Use Sturdy Boxes or Bags: Pack your donations in sturdy, waterproof bags or boxes. This protects the items during transportation and makes them easier to handle.
Labeling: Clearly label your donation with details like “Men’s Clothes,” “Children’s Clothes,” or “Winter Wear” to expedite the sorting process at the charity.
Include A List: Optionally, you can include a list of the items you donate within each box or bag. Some organizations appreciate this as it makes it easier for them to sort and allocate resources.
Seal Properly: Ensure the bags or boxes are sealed tightly to prevent any damage during transit.
Documentation: Many organizations provide tax-deductible receipts for your donated items. If this applies to you, be sure to ask for a receipt when you make your donation.
Transport: Decide whether you will drop off the donation or use a pick-up service if the charity offers one.
Following these guidelines can ensure that your clothes get a second life and go to those who truly need them.
Transporting your donations to any facility can often be cumbersome and time-consuming, Top Move has innovated a solution for you. We proudly offer a hassle-free, streamlined pick-up and drop-off service.
This premium service is crafted to cater to your convenience, removing any logistical burdens and allowing you to focus on what really matters—making a positive impact on the community
Begin by choosing what you intend to give. Our platform provides an easy-to-navigate list to assist you in this step.
Provide a detailed collection address. The more specific you are, the smoother the process will be. Indicate the “ Collection Floor Level “ —like basement, 1st floor, 2nd floor, and so on. Also, select the amount of help you'll need for “Item Loading”, such as requiring 1, 2, or 3 people for unloading.
Identify the day you plan to contribute your items. This enables our skilled moving team to assess their schedule availability.
Input the location where you intend to deliver your contributions. This aids in determining the travel distance for a precise cost estimate.
If it's feasible, add images of the goods or boxes you wish to donate. Doing so will give moving services a clearer understanding of what to expect.
Provide your email address, press the 'Submit' button, and start receiving your quotes. You can then move forward to secure your moving schedule.
By following this step-by-step blueprint, you're setting yourself up for a seamless donation process. And don't forget, when you choose Top Move, ease is not just an option—it's a guarantee. It's akin to having a personal relocation consultant, without the accompanying fees.
As the dust settles on your moving journey, there's a fulfilling sense of closure in knowing your once-cherished clothes have found new homes. Instead of adding them to landfills, your decision to donate has made a significant difference. It's more than just decluttering; it's about contributing to sustainable solutions and positive change.
Key takeaways:
Research charity options for clothing donations during your move.
Consider organizations like Goodwill, local thrift stores, or online platforms.
Ensure clothes are clean and in good condition.
Donating simplifies your move and supports causes.
Now that you've tackled the clothing dilemma, if you need assistance with the actual move, have a glance at Top Move. It's like Amazon/eBay/Fiverr for moving companies, ensuring Canadians find top-notch professionals for a hassle-free transition.
In Canada, charitable donations to registered charities are generally tax-deductible. Donors receive non-refundable tax credits with limits based on income.
Ensure you have a valid donation receipt and report contributions on your tax return.
Verify an organization's charitable status on the CRA website.
Stay updated on tax rules, as they can change.
Different organizations may have specific guidelines regarding the types of clothing they accept. It's a good idea to check with the charity to ensure your items meet their criteria.
There are several options for donating clothes when you're moving. Local charities, thrift stores, donation bins, or online platforms can be considered.
![The Cost of Living in Victoria [2024]](https://cdn.topmove.ca/image/blog/012c60baf3a9dd52b2112857fe508e4c.jpeg "The Cost of Living in Victoria [2024]")
![How much do you need to earn to live comfortably in Victoria? [2024]](https://cdn.topmove.ca/image/blog/f0bdeb7f43a3340afba84793c4fddbac.jpeg "How much do you need to earn to live comfortably in Victoria? [2024]")
![How much do you need to earn to live comfortably in Montreal? [2024]](https://cdn.topmove.ca/image/blog/80e0ee82a5a92d9451b96ff875513ee4.jpeg "How much do you need to earn to live comfortably in Montreal? [2024]")
![How much do you need to earn to live comfortably in Toronto? [2024]](https://cdn.topmove.ca/image/blog/de7b110360e9510bfcb89724b7ef9af4.jpeg "How much do you need to earn to live comfortably in Toronto? [2024]")
![How much do you need to earn to live comfortably in Calgary? [2024]](https://cdn.topmove.ca/image/blog/46fef724030602a02f51110ffb3ac569.jpeg "How much do you need to earn to live comfortably in Calgary? [2024]")
![The Cost of Living in Calgary [2024]](https://cdn.topmove.ca/image/blog/44a5bcb6ebf6c658f5c5fe30ab7077c9.jpeg "The Cost of Living in Calgary [2024]")
It's simple and easy to create a request on Top Move.
Describe, add photos and the dimensions of your shipment in your request — anything that you think will make a difference, will make a difference.
Our platform will reach out to moving companies relevant to your delivery specification in your area.
Movers may ask you a few more details about your delivery before giving you a quote.
Compare prices and get to know movers before accepting their quote by reading previous customer feedback on our platform.
Pick your preferred moving company and arrange collection and delivery.
Prepare your package for collection or if you are moving home, get ready for moving day.
Meet and greet your chosen moving company on your collection day.
Sit back and relax while your moving company takes care of your booking.
Please notify us of any violations. This information will be kept confidential and shared only with Top Move.
