Used toys and clothes-donations suggestions

[underpants]

We are clearly out stuff that Josie never plays with and can't wear anymore. I was just wondering of the options available to us.

We regularly give to AMVets and to an great local organization that has a shelter (emergency shelter) for abused women (BTW if you travel a lot take ALL of the free soaps and shampoos and such from you hotel and find such a shelter in your area). Where else?

Suggestions?

[KitchenWitch]

1. ARC is a good organization as well. If you have one in your area.

[underpants]

2. Association for Retarded Citizens

http://www.richmondarc.org/

Yes they are outstanding.

[trof]

3. The second best thing about those kinds of donations:

OK, first best is you're helping someone in need.
duh

BUT, there ain't no way the IRS can question those donations.
You ARE writing them off, right?

The Salvation Army, Goodwill, and a local battered women's shelter store never put a dollar amount on the receipt.

Soon after you make the donation it's GONE!
SOLD!
How could the IRS try and check out if it's worth as much as you said?
(Let your conscience be your guide. ;-))

Some years ago we remodeled the kitchen.
Got rid of a lot of the old cabinets.
I asked the Salvation Army if they could use them?
"Sure."
So I trucked them over.

But I also asked the guy installing the new cabinets what the old ones would be worth.
"Well, they're in good condition and certainly usable. They probably ran between $5000 and $6000 when installed. And they're really as good as new."

So I discounted them 20% and listed them as charitable donations on my tax form. Never a peep out of the feds.
:-)

[Zing Zing Zingbah]

4. I gave a lot of my son's toys to his daycare center.

That way he can share them with other kids.

[LeftyMom]

5. Ask around for another family who can use them?

For the longest we bagged up LK's outgrown stuff and gave it all to two other families we know with slightly younger boys who could use the help. I always figured it was better than donating because 100% went straight to somebody else.

Now if you itemize that's not your best choice, but otherwise I think direct donation is a great idea.

[Irishonly]

6. Homeless Shelter

if there is one close. You can also give to a battered women's shelter. I will also give to disabled vets.

[barb162]

7. St Vincent de Paul makes sure things get put to good use n/t