Donating to the Salvation Army is a great way to give back to your community and support those in need. With donation centers and thrift stores across the country, the Salvation Army provides a wide range of services, including disaster relief, food and shelter, and rehabilitation programs. But before you start cleaning out your closet and gathering items to donate, it's essential to know what the Salvation Army accepts and what they don't.
What Can I Donate to the Salvation Army?
The Salvation Army accepts a variety of donations, including:
- Clothing: Gently used clothing, shoes, and accessories for men, women, and children
- Furniture: Gently used furniture, including sofas, chairs, tables, and beds
- Household items: Kitchenware, linens, and small appliances
- Books and media: Books, CDs, DVDs, and video games
- Toys: Gently used toys and games
- Sports equipment: Gently used sports equipment, including bicycles and exercise equipment
Special Items the Salvation Army Accepts
In addition to the standard items, the Salvation Army also accepts:
- Cell phones: Working cell phones and phone accessories
- Computers: Working computers and computer accessories
- Cars: The Salvation Army has a vehicle donation program that accepts cars, trucks, and motorcycles
- Boats: The Salvation Army also accepts boat donations
What Not to Donate to the Salvation Army
While the Salvation Army appreciates all donations, there are some items that they cannot accept, including:
- Broken or damaged items
- Stained or soiled clothing and furniture
- Items with missing parts or incomplete sets
- Used mattresses and box springs
- Large appliances, such as refrigerators and washing machines
- Hazardous materials, such as batteries and electronics
Preparing Your Donations
Before donating to the Salvation Army, make sure to:
- Clean and inspect your items to ensure they are in good condition
- Remove any stains or odors from clothing and furniture
- Test electronics and appliances to ensure they are working properly
- Pack items carefully to prevent damage during transport
Salvation Army Donation Drop-Off Locations
The Salvation Army has donation centers and thrift stores across the country. To find a location near you, visit the Salvation Army's website and use their donation center locator tool.
Salvation Army Donation Pick-Up Services
In addition to drop-off locations, the Salvation Army also offers pick-up services for large or heavy donations. To schedule a pick-up, contact your local Salvation Army donation center.
Tax Deductions for Salvation Army Donations
The Salvation Army is a 501(c)(3) organization, which means that your donations are tax-deductible. When you donate to the Salvation Army, you will receive a receipt that you can use to claim your deduction on your tax return.
Valuing Your Donations
To help you determine the value of your donations, the Salvation Army provides a donation value guide. This guide provides estimated values for common donated items, such as clothing, furniture, and household goods.
Salvation Army Donation Printable Guide
To make it easier to remember what the Salvation Army accepts and what they don't, we've created a printable donation guide. This guide includes a list of accepted items, items to avoid, and tips for preparing your donations.
Download the Salvation Army Donation Printable Guide
Download the Salvation Army Donation Printable Guide to keep on hand when cleaning out your closet or decluttering your home.
By donating to the Salvation Army, you're not only decluttering your home, but you're also supporting a great cause. Remember to always check the Salvation Army's website or contact your local donation center to confirm their acceptance guidelines and any specific requirements for your donations.
We hope this comprehensive guide has been helpful in answering your questions about Salvation Army donations. If you have any more questions or would like to share your experiences with donating to the Salvation Army, please leave a comment below.
What is the Salvation Army's donation policy?
+The Salvation Army accepts a wide range of donations, including clothing, furniture, household items, and more. However, they do not accept broken or damaged items, stained or soiled clothing and furniture, and hazardous materials.
How do I schedule a donation pick-up with the Salvation Army?
+To schedule a donation pick-up with the Salvation Army, contact your local donation center. They will be able to provide you with more information and schedule a pick-up time that works for you.
Can I get a tax deduction for my Salvation Army donations?
+Yes, the Salvation Army is a 501(c)(3) organization, which means that your donations are tax-deductible. You will receive a receipt for your donation that you can use to claim your deduction on your tax return.