Spring Cleaning For a Cause!

by Angela
Wednesday, April 23, 2008

If you’re like me, your closet-err- spare bedroom needs a good “spring” cleaning! So crack the windows, stash your wool stockings and prop open the bags- it’s time to cut that clothing clutter. But wait! Don’t just throw away your wardrobe; one person’s trash is another person’s fash! Seriously! Let me explain…

Below are a few ways you can donate your goods and feel good while doing it, plus a fix for those fashionistas who love to give but don’t mind getting a little something (stylish) in return.

You probably already know about the many thrift stores around here, from the Salvation Army and St. Vincent de Paul to Purple Heart and Good Will. These organizations are great because they’re always looking for donations like clean clothing and non-damaged household goods. Purple Heart will even come get your clothing or household items so pick-up online! If you’re looking to clean out more than just your closet (like your garage) Good Will wants cars, too. Click here to see which location is closest to you.

Turn a Frown Upside Down With That Old Gown!

Face it. You don’t really need all those old bridesmaid dresses. If you didn’t like them then, do you really like them now? Oh, and that prom dress still hiding in the back there? Come on now. Well, thanks to Donatemydress.org, you can give your gowns to girls who need “special-occasion-wear”, but can’t afford it. The site provides a state-by-state directory of where to donate. A similar site, the glassslipperproject.org, is a Chicago-based organization that, with the help from Chicago Public Schools, gives young ladies in need free prom gear including everything from the dress, shoes and accessories to unused makeup. Michigan’s Hope Closet participates in this program so you can donate your clean tea-length or longer dresses (fewer than five years old), shoes and accessories in good condition and unused makeup.

Power Suits Are Back

Retired? Made every day casual Friday? Gained or lost some weight? Don’t hang on to those business suits you won’t be wearing. International organization Dressforsuccess.com provides work-appropriate clothing, enabling disadvantaged women to look polished and professional upon entering or returning to the workforce. Michigan has local centers in Detroit and Ypsilanti, so follow suit and get involved!

Give That Old Mink to PETA- Fur Real!

If you’re over that fur coat or feel like Cruella De Vil when donning it, PETA, yes People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, will gladly accept it. According to their website, the group will give your fur to homeless shelters for those folks who live in bitter cold climates and really need it to stay warm. The fur may also end up with wildlife rehabbers and activists involved in anti-fur demos. Learn how to shed your coat.

Miscellaneous: Cell Phones, Glasses, Jewelry and … Dentures?

Spring cleaning out your closet means junk drawers too. If you find some out-of-prescription frames or old shades (in good condition, of course), these could be used to give the gift of sight to someone in need. Neweyesfortheneedy.com also looks for pairs of prescription lenses, hearing aids, watches, silver and gold jewelry, and believe it or not, spare dentures!

If you also happen to find old cell phones that still work, don’t just toss ‘em. Plenty of organizations will give them to folks in need, or just help you abide by national environmental standards of battery disposal. You can even give your phone to a soldier. Click here for local drop-off points or to give it to charity.

SWAP Team

If you’ve accepted the fact that you must part ways with that mini skirt, but it would look good on your gal pal who has a, umm, less conservative day job, do what all the girls are doing- plan a clothing swap! This is a great way to get rid of tons-o-stuff you don’t wear, and get something you will wear! It’s easy. Just gather your most fashionable friends (I doubt you’ll be willing to trade Lacroix for Crocs!) and have them tell their most stylin’ sisters. Your closet may not have more free room, but your wardrobe options will increase and what’s better than that? Just a little F.Y.I… add a few bottles of wine and some music and you have yourselves a clothing swap party!