If you’re currently undertaking or planning a spring clean this year, consider donating your unwanted items to a charity that specifically needs them.
National not-for-profit organisation GIVIT is asking Canberrans to consider donating their unwanted household items during their spring clean, instead of sending them to landfill.
GIVIT’s ACT Manager Caroline Odgers says GIVIT matches good quality, second-hand donations with charities that have requested them, “matching public generosity with genuine need”.
Via GIVIT, charities request items on behalf of their clients and members of the public can then see what’s needed in their local area and donate accordingly.
“Since launching into the ACT in May 2017, with the support of the ACT Government, we have matched over 45,000 donations to the 160-plus charities who are registered with us across the Capital Region,” Ms Odgers says.
“A key focus of ours is to divert re-usable, quality items from landfill.
“We urge the community to visit [our website] and match a request to the item you no longer use. If you can’t find a match, visit the virtual warehouse … and register your item for one of GIVIT’s registered charities to view and select. Soon your goods will find a new home.”
GIVIT supports large, national charities as well as local regional charities and groups. Ms Odgers says items currently needed include fridges, washing machines and toiletries.
“We often hear that some families are keeping their groceries cool by using eskies, are washing their clothes by hand and do not have access to essential toiletry items. These kinds of donations can be life-changing.
“Donate that second fridge in your garage you never use, the spare bed that hasn’t been slept in for some time, or your still usable smart phone, laptop or tablet,” Ms Odgers says.
“These items will help a mum set up a new home after escaping domestic violence, a child sleep in a bed instead of on the floor, help a student or allow a homeless person to stay connected with loved ones or their support network.
Ms Odgers says if your item isn’t in good condition, to ensure it doesn’t go to landfill visit Recyclopedia [via act.gov.au/recycling] for recycling options.
“Our friends at Vinnies have a golden rule when it comes to donations – if you wouldn’t lend it to a friend, don’t donate it.
“Try donating just one quality, pre-loved item via GIVIT. I assure you, it’s a little addictive.”
To see what is needed and to donate your items, visit givit.org.au/items-needed
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