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WHAT'S NEW
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11 ways to donate -- and feel great
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Wonderful organizations that take your unwanted items and put them to good use.
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By Jennifer D. Foster
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6. Kidney Foundation of Canada
Got an old or unwanted car? Donate it to the Kidney Foundation of Canada's Kidney Car Program. Vehicles are towed for free and recycled (or resold), and the donor receives a tax receipt (amounts vary by region). Unsold cars are disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner: car parts, tires, batteries and oil are all recycled. Visit www.kidney.ca for details.
7. Habitat for Humanity Restores
Drop off your quality old or unused lumber, windows, paint, sinks, tubs, doors, tools, lights and cabinets -- or buy someone else's -- at one of the more than 37 Restores across the country. Profits go toward building affordable houses nationwide and "promoting home ownership as a means to breaking the cycle of poverty." Plus you'll feel better knowing your material is not headed for an overflowing landfill. Visit www.habitat.ca or call 1-800-667-5137 for a free pickup.
8. Computers for Schools
They've been taking your old computers and related equipment, then repairing and donating them to more than 650,000 schools, libraries and registered nonprofit learning organizations nationwide since 1993. Visit cfs-ope.ic.gc.ca or call 1-888-636-9899 to make a donation.
9. Salvation Army
Affectionately called the "Sally Ann," this organization accepts clothes, housewares and furniture and, in turn, sells them at rock-bottom prices in its more than 200 thrift shops across Canada. Proceeds fund local social programs and services, as well as emergency global relief programs. Visit www.salvationarmy.ca for local store listings.
10. Mennonite Central Committee
Your gently used or new goods donated to MCC Thrift Shops provide affordable family clothing and household items for any community members in need. Funds raised from selling these donations become your "gift to the world" through MCC's work among people suffering from oppression, poverty, conflict and natural disasters. Visit www.mcc.org for details or call 1-888-622-6337.
11. The Freecycle Network
This site is an example of digital genius at its best. The Freecycle Network is a global community of people giving away -- and getting -- free stuff in their hometowns. A local volunteer moderates each local Web group, and membership is free. When you want to find a new home for something -- whether it's a couch, a computer or a piano -- just send an e-mail, offering it up to members of your local Freecycle group. Visit www.freecycle.org for more information.
Whether you're purging Aunt Ethel's ancient sofa, unread books or that ill-fitting blouse, think digital. When the clutter is gone, you'll feel a sense of freedom and peace of mind, Mother Earth will breathe a sigh of relief and someone else may just find the bargain of his or her dreams.
Thinking of ditching your old mattress? First, read our guide to buying a new one.
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