Your old power suits, the kids’ baby clothes … It’s fine for nostalgia to occupy an important place in your heart, but must it all be crammed in your closet? This fall, rethink your pack-rat ways. The following charities are no longer accepting clothing donations for the WTC relief efforts, but they’ll still make good use of the threads you’re ready to retire – and get you a tax deduction for all donations.
The Salvation Army: Eight thrift stores in the city fund the company’s residential facility for substance abusers. Clothes must be in clean, wearable condition. The stores will pick up furniture (call 800-95-truck). For the nearest drop-off location, call 212-757-2311. Unsure how much your stuff is worth? Check the Valuation Guide at www.salvationarmy.org.Multiple locations.
Housing Works: Proceeds fund housing, support services, job training, and advocacy for homeless people afflicted with HIV and aids. Clothes must be in good shape. The company will pick up only if you have a lot – say, ten trash bags’ worth – or really expensive designer pieces that make it cost-effective to hire movers. Call 212-366-0820 for the nearest drop-off location (taxi fares up to $10 will be reimbursed with store credit). Multiple locations.
Dress for Success: Donations of gently worn office attire go to women who can’t afford to dress for job interviews. “Our most immediate need is size 12 and up,” says the company’s executive director. Check out www.dressforsuccess.org or call 212-545-dsny for drop-off locations. 32 E. 31st St., Ste. 602.
Spence-Chapin Thrift Shops: Proceeds benefit New York City adoption programs. These stores sell everything from armoires to glassware – so don’t restrict your cleaning fervor to your closet. They’ll pick up furniture and massive amounts of clothing. 1473 Third Ave., near 83rd St. (212-737-8448); 1850 Second Ave., near 95th St. (212-426-7643).
Memorial Sloane-Kettering Cancer Center Thrift Shop: Proceeds support hospital and patient-care programs. Free pickup for furniture. 1440 Third Ave., near 82nd St. (212-535-1250).
Cancer Care Thrift Shop: Proceeds pay for counseling services for cancer patients and their families. Bring stuff in yourself, and the shop will reimburse the cost of your cab fare with store credit or a tax deduction. If you have merchandise of exceptional quality and value, these people will pick it up. 1480 Third Ave., near 83rd St. (212-879-9868).
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