As homeowners of a certain age, we often find ourselves with a lifetime's worth of treasured possessions. But what happens when you find you need to downsize your home, sometimes even quickly? You may be moving into a smaller home to be near family, or perhaps you have a health issue that requires a change in living environment. Whatever the reason, having to face the daunting task of getting rid of possessions in your life can be not only overwhelming but downright depressing. After all, these are not just "things" or "clutter," but our cherished possessions that reflect back memories of our very lives. Of course, there is also the actual clutter: outdated magazines, clothes, books, unfinished projects, etc. Rather than allowing these items to gather dust or contribute to disorder, there is an alternative that not only benefits you but also your community: Donating! This guide will show you the way.
First, you have to decide what you are willing to donate. Many items can be sold or gifted to family members for their own financial benefit. For this guide, we are discussing only the items you have already identified as not needed for you or your family and friends but that will be needed and wanted by others.
When I donate to others, I feel as though I am the one who is getting the gift. I know that may sound counter-intuitive, but I really do. Being a real estate broker, one of the causes near and dear to my heart is homelessness. Where I live in Providence, I see homeless individuals on street corners and in tent communities. I like to go to Aldi supermarkets and put together care packages of water bottles, snacks, tuna and crackers, nuts, and the like to give to them. It fills my heart to do even the smallest of things.
At holiday time, I look through my own gift drawer, where I pick up things at a discount throughout the year. Sometimes the gift I thought was perfect for someone is no longer right. When I have new items with tags, I like to donate them so others can give them to loved ones at the holidays. It's such a small gesture.
So consider what you may have in your own home. There could be some gems that can sparkle for others.
Is it furniture, clothes, electronics, books, or food? There are people right now in our state in need who would truly benefit from the items that no longer serve a purpose. In giving to fellow Rhode Islanders, you can feel good that you are contributing to the well-being of others in our state.
Knowing that your belongings will find a new purpose and bring joy to someone else's life can bring a sense of satisfaction and happiness. It allows us to give back to our community and make a positive impact on the lives of others.
Now the real work begins. As you move through the process, it may be helpful to set a timer for 20 minutes and take 10-minute breaks in between. Otherwise, frustration and overwhelm can take over. So before we talk about identifying items that can be donated and those that are more challenging, let's ask ourselves some questions.
When you find yourself in a house full of things that have taken up residence like an unwelcome guest, you have options. Let's start first by understanding what can and cannot be donated. Then we will provide all the resources available right at your disposal (pardon the pun). Not all of your items are candidates for finding new homes. Let's explore this a bit further.
Condition of Items: Donation centers typically accept items that are in good, usable condition. This means they should be clean, undamaged, and in working order. As long as the items are not in need of repair, the range of items that can be donated is wide, from books to furniture, electronics, clothes, used blankets, and towels.