Charity Donation Recommendations for Moving Out

I recently had to move out of Houston due to lay-offs and was in a rush to get rid of a lot of items. It was difficult finding legitimate charities that would put my items to good use, but I managed to find a few gems throughout the city with nice staff running them.

I know it's moving season, so if you're also moving out soon I hope that this list helps!

• Allies in Hope: Items like toiletries and unexpired foods. They will check to make sure things are unopened / unexpired so make sure you toss away anything old. Office is difficult to find, but if you park at the walkway between the two buildings with a strip of overhead roofing then you are in the right place. The door to the office will be in the building furthest from the road.
• BARC Animal Shelter + Adoptions: Items like animal goods, cleaning supplies, some basic craft supplies. Their donation location is different than when you search "BARC" on Google Maps, but if you arrive at the office they will direct you to the right place nearby.
• Texas Art Asylum: Items like art supplies, DIY supplies, and all sorts of odds and ends. Their donation is schedule-only so make sure to book a spot on their website. People are also welcome to shop here so if you're running any sort of crafting club or classroom, this is a great spot.
• Dress for Success: Items like professional clothing, shoes, and accessories. They ask that the clothing be clean and donated on hangers. I did a closet clean-out and gave a lot of items that no longer fit me or were no longer suitable for me here. They also really love work-bags if you have them.
• The Cottage Shop: Items like gently used clothing, home goods and some furniture. They are a re-sale shop where profits go back to women and families in the community. Even if you're not donating, a rather nice place to shop with really really good discounts.
• Goodwill: Generally everything except large furniture and foods. There is a drop-off location on Kirby that I found to be quick and efficient with little to no traffic if you're just looking to donate. The Westheimer location staff are nice but I always find the parking lot too chaotic.

I've hyperlinked each charity's website – please be sure to double check the list of acceptable donation items and donation times before dropping anything off!

Hope this helps some of you and I hope that these charities and shops get some additional support, be it through items / money / even a visit from one of you!