Spring Cleaning? Great! Do Not Throw Everything Away.
Spring is here. It's the time of year when the sun crosses the celestial equator, March Madness begins (ahem, right here in Indy), and your house reveals all the clutter and ‘extra stuff’ you’ve collected for months.
Yes, spring cleaning. That annual tradition of opening windows after a long winter, dusting things un-touched for months, vacuuming in places long forgotten, and cleaning out closets, pantries, and storage rooms of items barely used, worn and unopened.
That extra stuff – don’t throw it all out!
Goodwill Industries and the Salvation Army are well-known entities that will gladly take your unused items. But did you know? United Way of Central Indiana is proud to highlight other important service organizations that could benefit from your gently used articles of clothing, kitchenware, furniture and cleaning supplies as well as your basic foodstuffs, just sitting on that shelf.
Organizations That Can Use Your “Spring Cleaning” Donation
Christamore House
Located on the Near Westside, Christamore helps individuals find jobs, provides utility and rental assistance, offers financial and employment coaching, and serves children in its early education program.
Donations requested: Cleaning supplies (bleach, detergent, disinfectant)Toiletries (lotion, soap, toilet paper, deodorant, toothpaste and toothbrushes)
HVAF of Indiana
Located in downtown Indianapolis, HVAF is on a mission to solve the homeless veteran crisis in our community.
Donations requested: Kitchenware (pots/pans, dishes, food storage containers)Housewares (bedding, towels, washcloths, shower curtains/liners)Clothing (men’s tank shirts, thermal pants, jean, plain t-shirts)
Indiana Youth Group (IYG)
IYG is an advocate for youth ages 12-20 who self-identify as LGBTQ+ and need a safe space to build their confidence, develop friendships, and empower them to lead vibrant, successful lives.
Food donations requested: Canned good items, pasta, boxed meals, trail mix, beef jerky, protein bars and peanut butter.
Julian Center
Since 1975, the Julian Center is the largest organization in Indiana providing safe shelter and support for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Each year, the center empowers more than 6,000 survivors to recover and rebuild their lives.
Donations requested: Clothing (women’s, men’s and children)Accessories (belts, ties, shoes, hats, gloves and mittens)Entertainment (books, games, media, CDs, DVDs, and VHS tapes)Household items (home décor, bed linens, dishes, framed art, small appliances)
Prime Life Enrichment
Prime Life Enrichment provides programs and services that promote independence, wellness and socialization for those over the age of 50. Prime Life’s facility includes a Thrift Shop, where gently used items are re-sold to clients who need basic household items and clothing.
Donations requested: Household items, small appliances, clothing, books, games and art supplies.