Your kids have outgrown last year’s clothes. You’re never going to wear that prom dress again. You hate that one tie your husband insists on wearing out to dinner on your anniversary. Your mom gave you her bedazzled sweater from 1985. If any of these sound familiar, you’re probably thinking about cleaning out your closet. These items are simply no longer of use to you, but that doesn’t mean their lives are over. Before you send them off to the dump, that textile graveyard for the ripped and ruined, remember that one person’s trash is another person’s treasure. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, one individual American throws out an average of 10 pounds of clothes per year. Chances are, many of those garments could have clothed a number of people for years to come. On average, one American consumer purchases 68 garments and 7 pairs of shoes each year. Our bodies and tastes change over time and certain items become less valuable to us. But they still hold value for someone without a closet of clothes and shoes. Perfectly good items are being discarded every day for the sake of convenience. The garbage truck comes directly to your house; it’s quick and easy. But did you know that there are charity organizations that offer home pick up service? Donating your unwanted clothing can be just as simple as tossing it in the trash, and it is guaranteed to help those in need in your community and beyond. Used clothing donations can also be made at a clothing donation center.
Approximately 3% of American income is given to charities annually. Used clothing donations are just as important, and have the added benefit of helping the environment by decreasing waste. When you donate clothing, you are giving more than just a sweater or a pair of sneakers. You are passing on a piece of your life and your story with the hope that it will benefit the life of someone else. Clothes donations are a more intimate and personal form of charity, and while you may never meet the new owner of your once-loved item, you can rest assured that he or she is just a little warmer, happier, and more comfortable because of your extra bit of effort.
