Getting rid of furniture can be a hassle, especially if it’s still in good condition. Instead of leaving it on the curb or paying someone to haul it away, consider donating it. Your old sofa, dining table, dresser, or bed could end up helping someone furnish a home, support a local nonprofit, or raise money for a good cause.
Many organizations gladly accept gently used furniture, and some will even pick up larger pieces from your home. Before donating, check that your furniture is clean, in working condition, and meets the organization’s donation guidelines.
Here are 10 places where your furniture can make a real difference.
Goodwill
Goodwill accepts many types of furniture, along with clothing, electronics, and household goods, as long as they’re in good, usable condition. The items are sold through Goodwill stores, and the money helps fund job training, career services, and employment programs for people looking to build new skills and find work.
If your furniture still has plenty of life left, donating it to Goodwill is an easy way to give it a second home.
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army accepts furniture donations to help support its community programs, including homeless shelters, addiction recovery services, emergency assistance, and food programs.
Many locations offer free pickup for larger items, making it a convenient choice if you have bulky furniture that won’t fit in your vehicle. It’s always a good idea to check with your local branch to see what they currently accept.
Habitat for Humanity ReStore
Habitat for Humanity ReStores sell donated furniture, appliances, home décor, and building materials at discounted prices. The money raised helps fund affordable housing projects in local communities.
Many ReStores accept sofas, dining sets, bedroom furniture, office furniture, and other household pieces that are clean and in good condition. Many locations also provide free pickup for larger donations.
Furniture Bank
Furniture Banks work with families and individuals who are rebuilding their lives after homelessness, domestic violence, natural disasters, or financial hardship. Instead of selling donated furniture, they give it directly to people who need it.
Beds, dressers, dining tables, sofas, and other everyday furniture can make a huge difference for someone moving into a new home with very little.
Local Homeless Shelters and Community Charities
Many local shelters and nonprofit organizations accept furniture to help families moving into permanent housing. Beds, tables, dressers, couches, and kitchen furniture are often among the most requested items.
Calling ahead is always a good idea since every organization has different storage space and donation needs. Donating locally also means your furniture stays in your own community.
Schools, Churches, and Community Centers
Schools, churches, and community centers often need furniture for classrooms, meeting rooms, youth programs, offices, and gathering spaces. Tables, chairs, bookshelves, filing cabinets, and sofas are commonly accepted if they’re still in good shape.
Some organizations may even arrange pickup for larger donations, while others ask donors to drop items off during business hours.
Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA)
Vietnam Veterans of America accepts many household donations through its donation program, including furniture in areas where pickup service is available.
The proceeds from donated items help support programs that serve veterans and their families. Since pickup availability depends on where you live, it’s worth checking with your local chapter before scheduling a donation.
Housing Works
Housing Works operates thrift stores that sell donated furniture, home décor, artwork, and other household goods. The money raised supports housing, healthcare, and other services for people living with HIV/AIDS.
Well-made furniture in good condition is especially valuable because it helps generate more funding for these programs.
The Arc
The Arc supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through education, employment programs, advocacy, and family services. Many local chapters accept furniture donations to help fund these efforts.
Accepted items vary by location, so it’s best to contact your nearest chapter before loading up your vehicle. Some chapters also offer free pickup for larger pieces.
OfferUp or Facebook Marketplace (Free Section)
If you prefer giving furniture directly to someone who needs it, the free section on OfferUp or Facebook Marketplace is another good choice. Listing an item for free often attracts local families, students, or people furnishing a home on a tight budget.
In many cases, the person receiving the furniture will pick it up themselves, saving you the trouble of transporting it. It’s a simple way to clear space while helping someone nearby.
