what items will salvation army accept

Natashya

2 min read

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25-12-2024

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The Salvation Army is a well-known charitable organization that provides assistance to those in need. One of the ways they achieve this is through their donation centers, accepting a wide variety of gently used goods. But what exactly does the Salvation Army accept? This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of acceptable and unacceptable donations. Knowing what they can and can't use helps ensure your donations are put to good use.

Clothing and Textiles

The Salvation Army welcomes a wide range of clothing and textile donations. Clean and gently used items are preferred.

Acceptable Items:

• Clothing: Men's, women's, and children's clothing in good condition. This includes shirts, pants, dresses, coats, jackets, and sweaters.
• Shoes: Paired shoes in good condition.
• Linens: Sheets, blankets, towels, and other household linens.
• Accessories: Belts, scarves, hats, and gloves.
• Household Textiles: Curtains, drapes, and other fabric items.

Unacceptable Items:

• Torn or stained clothing: Items that are heavily soiled, ripped, or beyond repair are not suitable for resale.
• Underwear and socks: These items are generally not accepted for hygiene reasons.
• Mattresses and box springs: Due to sanitary concerns, these are typically not accepted.

Household Goods

The Salvation Army also accepts a selection of household goods, but with some limitations.

Acceptable Items:

• Small Appliances: Working microwaves, toasters, blenders, and other small kitchen appliances in good condition.
• Dishes and Kitchenware: Plates, cups, bowls, and utensils in good condition.
• Books and Media: Books, DVDs, and CDs in good condition.
• Bedding: Blankets, pillows, and comforters (check local center for specific requirements).
• Household Decor: Pictures, vases, and other decorative items in good condition.

Unacceptable Items:

• Broken or damaged items: Anything that is broken or doesn't function properly.
• Large appliances: Refrigerators, washing machines, and dryers are generally not accepted due to size and logistics.
• Electronics: Often depends on the location and condition, it's best to call ahead.
• Hazardous materials: Paints, chemicals, and other hazardous materials are never accepted.

Other Items:

The Salvation Army's acceptance policies can vary by location. Always contact your local Salvation Army store to confirm.

Generally Accepted Items:

• Toys and Games: Clean and undamaged toys and games.
• Sporting Goods: Sports equipment in good condition.
• Tools: Hand tools and power tools in working order.

Generally Unaccepted Items:

• Expired food: Food donations must be unexpired and in unopened containers. Many locations do not accept food donations.
• Medical equipment: Medical equipment is typically not accepted.
• Furniture: Often accepted, but depends on condition and local center capacity. Call ahead to check.

Preparing Your Donations:

To ensure your donations are accepted, follow these guidelines:

• Clean items thoroughly: Remove any dirt, stains, or odors.
• Repair any minor damage: Mend small tears or buttons.
• Bag or box items appropriately: Use sturdy bags or boxes to prevent damage during transport.
• Contact your local Salvation Army: Call ahead to confirm acceptance of specific items, especially larger ones.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure your donations are used effectively and contribute to The Salvation Army's mission of helping those in need. Remember to always check with your local Salvation Army for their specific guidelines, as policies may vary slightly from location to location. Happy donating!