Textile waste remains a continuous problem throughout the United States. In fact, statistics show that the average person in the United States throws away nearly 82 pounds of textile waste per year. Considering the number of people in the United States, this means that an estimated 12 millions tons of textile waste ends up in garbage bins annually. That being said, you can do your part to stop this growing problem by donating used clothing. With that in mind, here are the steps needed in order to donate clothing to organizations that pick up donations.
- Fill Out Location Information
First, you’ll need to provide your information before providing donations for non profit organizations. This information includes important items such as your name, address, and ways to reach you. Throughout this process, you’re likely going to find out if pick up service is available in your area. If you live in an area where donations can be collected, it’s time to move on to the next step. - Let Organization Know What You’re Donating
Next, it’s time to let an organization know what you’re donating. In many cases, you’ll be asked how many bags or boxes worth of items you’re donating. Considering that, you’ll want to ensure you’re keeping track of each box’s contents. While preparing items for organizations that accept clothing donations, you might find other things to donate. With that in mind, make sure that the charity you’re donating to will accept these items. If you aren’t seeing the items listed on the charity’s website, they probably can’t accept them. - Scheduling a Convenient Date
After you’ve filled in the required information, you’ll need to schedule a pick up date. Certain individuals might want to make sure that these items aren’t stolen. In turn, you might feel safer scheduling a pick up date that takes place while you’re home. Regardless of the date you choose, you’ll want to label your donated boxes or bags properly. In many cases, donations for non profit organizations will tell you how to properly label any boxes or bags for a driver to collect. - Having Your Items Picked Up
Once a date has been scheduled, you’ll simply need to wait for the drivers to arrive. Next, your items will be loaded up and taken to where they can help those in need. It’s important to know that many donations for non profit organizations are tax deductible. With that in mind, it’s wise to ensure that you’re able to receive a receipt for the items you’ve donated. You’ll want to keep this receipt safe as it could be needed for proof of donations exceeding a certain value.
In closing, there are only a few steps needed in order to donate clothing to a charity that picks up donations. Statistics show that the average woman in the United States owns an outfit for each day of the month. This often means that many of these clothes will rarely be worn. With that in mind, considering following the simple steps above and donate these unused items to those in need. Setting up a donation pick up is easy, makes you feel great, and provides potential savings during tax time.