When there’s a will, there’s a way
Last week Goodwill abruptly closed 16 stores and 10 donation centres across the GTA, impacting thousands who rely on the organization for employment, affordable shopping and receipt of donations. Although the future of the business is uncertain, the spirit of generosity lives on in the same communities where Goodwill doors closed, as many seek alternative locations to take their unwanted items.
Here are a few other local charities and organizations that will gladly accept the gently used clothing, furniture and miscellaneous household goods you no longer need:
With 43 locations and growing The Bible for Missions Thrift Store (BFM) is a volunteer-driven, non-denominational Christian organization that operates thrift stores across Canada. Proceeds from donated goods generate funds for the BFM foundation which, through a Joint Ministry with Bible League Canada, aims to transform peoples’ lives through the Living Word of God. For more information visit bfmthriftstores.ca and check out their Barrie location at 504 Big Bay Point Road.
The Canadian Diabetes Association Clothesline program accepts clothing, electronics, small household items and more. One hundred per cent of net proceeds raised by Clothesline directly support world-leading diabetes research, education and advocacy. For a full list of items that they accept, home pick up options and local drop off locations visit diabetes.ca/how-you-can-help/clothesline.
The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that has grown to become the largest non-governmental provider of social services in the country. Their thrift stores accept clothing of all kinds which they resell to generate funds for programs that assist over 1.8 million vulnerable people in Canada each year, including refugees, children and families, homeless people and those struggling with addiction. Visit thriftstore.ca to find a store location and/or drop off bin near you.
Habitat for Humanity ReStore is a great option for donating major appliances such as refrigerators, ovens, washing machines and more. The items they accept are resold at store level with proceeds supporting Habitat for Humanity home builds. They even have a volunteer pickup service for selected items. Visit habitat.ca to find a location near you or to set up a product donation.
Branded as the Thrift Superstore with a Community Conscience, Value Village hasa mission to use their company earnings to support local nonprofit organizations in the community, specifically those that aim to improve education, fight diseases and help children and families. Stores are located across Ontario including Barrie, Orillia and Newmarket, and accept an assortment of clothing and household items. Visit valuevillage.com for full details.
Kidney Clothes donation program turns your unwanted wardrobe into much needed funds for research and educational programs that help fight kidney disease. Along with accepting a myriad of cloth-based items like bedding, draperies, sleeping bags and gently used clothing, they’ll pick up your donation free of charge. Learn more at kidney.ca/kidney-clothes.