Each year, Americans throw away more clothing than anywhere else on the planet — some estimates place the amount between 12 and 13 million tons. As a result, at least 5% of our landfills consists of clothing and textiles, including fibers such as cotton, polyester, nylon, rayon, and more. While it may seem like this type of land pollution is daunting, there is one way to help save the planet: donate clothes to charity organizations in your area.
Charitable donations can be given to all types of organizations, from thrift stores to specific charities such as Purple Heart donation pick ups. Have you wanted to give your used clothing donations to charity, but you’re unsure of how to participate? Here are some easy ways for you to start getting involved:
Donate to a shelter or other charity
Many charities help donate directly to the needy, so they can get the clothing and other goods that they need. Some of these donations go toward helping families in need, so they can outfit their children and have the right items for their households. Other shelters focus on helping the homeless and give directly to the poor to keep them warm and safe.
Donate to a thrift store
Many secondhand stores accept donations, and they often use the proceeds from their sales to benefit families and individuals in need directly. Giving your used clothing donations to a thrift store might also ensure that in-need populations are given jobs. ABVI-Goodwill, for example, often hires the blind or others in the community to work in their stores, which helps those individuals earn money and maintain their independence.
Donate to a clothing pick up
Clothing pick ups take part of the work out of donating by coming to you for your unwanted goods. A good example of a charity that specializes in clothing pick ups is the Purple Heart donation pick ups. Purple Heart donation pick ups will come right to your door, and they can also sometimes accept household goods, small appliances, and furniture, too. See if there are any charitable organizations in your area that offer this door-to-door service.
Have more questions about donating? Let us know in the comments section.