On Being Thankful & Grateful

Like many of you, we’ll be spending Thanksgiving with relatives and friends.  As we prepare for our trip out-of-town, I’ve been thinking about a holiday saying I noticed over on Pinterest. “Give Thanks with a Grateful Heart. It’s a free printable from theDiaryofDavesWife.com (a clever DIY blog).

Since I am both thankful and grateful, I decided to put together a quick post on how, during this time of year, we can harness these feelings and do some good. It’s really simple to do.

This doesn’t require any grand gestures like joining the Peace Corp. (but that’s cool if you do) or even giving away lots of money (once again, good for you if you can), but rather making donations of goods (housewares, clothing, shoes, electronics, books, art, etc.) you have lying around your home and in your closet. Stuff you’re not using and will feel better about if you clear it out.

DONATE – DO GOOD
We shop at thrift stores for different reasons, to save money, find unique things, recycle, reuse and for fun. During our many thrift store visits I’ve learned about how our donations  and purchases provide helpful services and support to folks in need.

For example, in northern New England, Goodwill supports a comprehensive network of services, which provides Health Care, Independent living and Rehabilitation for individuals with intellectual disabilities, acquired brain injuries, and individuals who are deaf.

SIMPLE & EASY
To make it easy for you to give, I’ve put together a list of places to donate your stuff. Some places are more particular than others about what they accept…but be honest …if your stuff is dirty, torn or broken then throw it out. Remember to ask for a receipt so you can get a tax deduction for your donation!

Goodwill (donations accepted at thrift stores and drop boxes)

Salvation Army  (now have a pick up service, donations accepted at thrift stores and drop boxes)

Purple Heart  & Green Drop (will pick up or you can drop off at designated centers)

DonateStuff.com (national website – will pick up in some locations or will send prepaid shipping bag)

Re-Store Habitat for Humanity (accepts building materials, house hold goods, some furniture)

Volunteers of America (will pick up, donations accepted at thrift stores and drop boxes)

Housing Works NYC (drop off locations-free furniture pick up)

Savers Thrift Stores (drop off at stores and some pick up service)

For an even bigger list visit the MissMinimalist blog for 101 places to donate stuff.
For a list of  places that specialize in items such as books, shoes, cell phones, etc. see Apartment Therapy’s list

You should also check your local area for missions, charities and shelters (for people and animals) that are looking for donated goods.

*Photo from Bourbonandboots.com

Be thankful and grateful – Donate and do some good.

Happy Thanksgiving.