It’s that time of year when most of us feel obligated to do “spring cleaning”. At least we attempt to clean windows, wash curtains, clean out the garden shed, and other tasks we dislike doing the rest of the year. Give your cleaning a purpose this year, and see if it puts an optimistic outlook on this annual routine.
This year, consider what you can give to someone who has a need. Not just the ugly Christmas gift from Aunt Edna, but look around for those things that you never use. With continued economic challenges facing families, used items (in good condition) are in such demand. Charities are stretched to meet extreme needs with very limited resources.
Meanwhile, we have garages full of “stuff” that we don’t really need, but we aren’t willing to part with, or we don’t know where to donate. Make some calls to churches, local community charities, local shelters. Did you know that Shriners collect old eyeglasses? Do you realize that many shelters can use bed sheets and towels, or that local veterinarians often can use towels? Have you got some books and magazines that the folks at the retirement center would enjoy?
Here’s a list to help you decide what can be donated:
- clothing of all kinds: shoes, coats, suits, dresses
- linens, towels, bed sheets
- older upholstered or wood furniture: sofas, chairs, bookcases
- electronics, computers, telephones
- non-perishable food, if before the expiration date (to shelters or food banks)
- tools and equipment
- kitchenware
- craft supplies
- durable medical equipment: wheelchairs, walkers, canes
- prescription eye glasses
- office equipment and supplies
- books and magazines
- toys your children outgrow
Start clearing out those things that you don’t use; now you have a purpose and a plan. As for washing the windows, sorry, you’re on your own for that task!
© 2010 Julie Hall