Marie Kondo (famous organizing consultant) says to only hang on to your household items that “spark joy.” She also suggests you systematically go through your home to tackle your clutter. It’s not rocket science but it IS practical advice.

In his article for the Nest.com, Chris Blank wrote, “If your home is on the market, you may wonder whether decluttering can improve the prospects of achieving a sale. As it turns out, getting rid of excess stuff cannot only help your home sell faster, it may make the difference in getting a sale at all. It’s definitely worth the effort involved.“

Decluttering is imperative when selling a home but I think it’s a good practice to adopt at all times. I would also offer that we can find joy by donating our things to people who need them! I am all about the joy! Here’s a small list of places where you can donate your used items and feel joy knowing you are helping someone!!

Places To Donate:

• Goodwill of Rochester. They will accept most household items. Here’s a list of what they will likely take and will not take. And here is a link to drop-off locations around Rochester!
• Habitat for Humanity / Restore. They accept furniture, appliances and some building materials. Here’s a link with more information.
• Salvation Army. You can find more info at this link and even schedule a free pickup.
• The Ronald McDonald House Annual Sale. You can find more information about what they accept here. Upcoming Drop-off Dates at 1 Medley Centre Parkway in Irondequoit include:
  Thursday, April 4, 2019: 2:00p.m. – 7:00p.m.
  Saturday, April 6, 2019: 10:00a.m. – 2:00p.m.
  Thursday, April 18, 2019: 2:00p.m. – 7:00p.m.
• Open Door Mission for Clothing Donations.
  • HOURS OF CLOTHING DROP-OFF: Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm. Open Door Mission Caring & Donation Center
    • 156 Plymouth Ave N., Rochester, NY 14608
  • URGENT NEEDS:
    • Coats
    • Gloves/ Scarves/ Hats
    • Boots (children and adults)
    • Socks
    • Hoodies
    • Long Underwear/ Thermals
    • Sweaters
    • Hand warmers
    • Blankets/ Sheets/ Pillows (please new)
    • Towels/ Wash cloths

• RAIHN – Rochester Area Interfaith Hospitality Network. RAIHN accepts the following new or gently used items to distribute to our families when they move into their new home.  (PLEASE CALL before delivering.):
  • • Furniture – mattresses and box springs (twin, double/full, or queen), bed frames.
    • Small Appliances – lamps, microwaves, toasters, coffee makers, vacuum cleaners, can openers, clocks, DVD players, etc.
    • Baby Items – high chairs, strollers, activity gyms, baby bouncers
    • Other Household Items – dishes, pots and pans, silverware, cutlery, bakeware, towels, shower curtains, bath mats, curtains, sheets, blankets, comforters, bicycles and helmets.

• Local Churches and Schools often hold sales as fundraisers! Check in to see what they are looking for and when you can give!

This is not a complete list! There are other wonderful organizations looking for donations. So if your winter coat isn’t sparking joy for you any more, get joy by giving it to someone who desperately needs it! Your home will thank you and so will your community!

Cheers!

Amy