Most people think of donating old clothes when they drop items off at Goodwill, but many everyday essentials are just as valuable to shoppers. According to Stacy Taylor, a marketing specialist with Goodwill Industries of Central Florida, certain donations become especially important during the back-to-school season because they help families save money while giving gently used items a second life.
If you’re decluttering your home, these are some of the most-needed donations to keep in mind before your next trip to Goodwill.
Dorm Room Appliances
As college students prepare to move into dorms, affordable appliances become highly sought after. Working mini-refrigerators, coffee makers, blenders, toasters, and similar dorm essentials can save students hundreds of dollars compared to buying new.
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Backpacks
Backpacks are one of the first items many parents need to replace each school year. Good-quality backpacks with working zippers and straps often sell quickly because they’re practical and much more affordable than buying new.
New or Gently Used School Supplies
Unused notebooks, binders, folders, pens, pencils, crayons, markers, colored pencils, and pencil sharpeners are always appreciated. Even small donations of school supplies can help families prepare for a new school year without paying full retail prices.
Kids’ Clothing
Children outgrow clothes quickly, making gently used clothing one of the most requested donations. School uniforms, jeans, T-shirts, hoodies, sweaters, and gym clothes help families stretch their back-to-school budgets while keeping perfectly wearable clothing out of landfills.
Children’s Shoes
Sneakers, athletic shoes, boots, and everyday footwear are always in demand, especially before school starts. As long as they’re clean and have plenty of life left, donated shoes can make a big difference for families shopping on a budget.
Lunch Boxes
Lunch boxes and insulated lunch bags are another back-to-school staple that shoppers actively look for. If yours are clean, odor-free, and still in good condition, they’re excellent candidates for donation.
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Reusable Water Bottles
Reusable water bottles have become everyday essentials for students, teachers, and commuters alike. Insulated bottles, travel mugs, and tumblers are especially popular because they can be reused for years and save money on disposable drinks.
Learning Toys
Educational toys that encourage creativity, problem-solving, or early learning are another donation Goodwill welcomes. Montessori-inspired toys, building sets, puzzles, and educational games often find new homes with young families.
Children’s Books
Books that help children learn to read or support classroom learning remain in high demand. Whether it’s picture books, chapter books, or educational workbooks, gently used books help make reading more affordable for families.
