The Seven Worst Ways to Give to Charities during the Holidays

Vanessa L. Small, The Washington, Post, November 24, 2013

As we approach the holiday season you might find yourself feeling more grateful, compassionate and charitable than at any other time of year. Now is the time when people eagerly donate that load of clothes taking up space in the basement, or employers begin hosting food drives. But is it possible for such a generous act of goodwill to create more harm than good? When it comes to holiday giving, charities sometimes find themselves overwhelmed by volunteer requests and donations. So before you are overtaken by the giving spirit, there are a few things charities and nonprofits are dying for you to know.


No Dirty Clothes?
Tired of looking at those burgundy corduroy pants you haven’t worn since high school? You may be thinking that now is the time to finally give them away to your local charity. Or perhaps you want to donate the broken toy that your kid outgrew. Think again. Charities say that undesirable items are the most frustrating donations to receive. While charities are grateful for the act of kindness, it can put the organization in an awkward position.

“People think they’re doing you a huge favor by giving you dirty furniture or a beat up car,” said Eric Salmi, spokesperson for Catholic Charities. “But the quality of stuff is really important because we’re passing things off to people who we want to feel dignified.”

In some cases, says the Salvation Army, the gift is not only undesirable but not resalable. Jennifer Dean, manager of volunteer engagement at Miriam’s Kitchen, remembers a rather unpleasant experience. She received a donation of clothes so soiled that the case managers were “tied up for an hour picking through them, with masks and gloves on, ultimately having to discard everything.”

Chef John Murphy, also of Miriam’s Kitchen, says it’s common for him to receive half-eaten loaves of bread and jars of peanut butter from college students eager to clear out their minifridges before heading home for holiday break. Staff at Sasha Bruce Youthwork, a shelter for homeless teenagers, say that they tend to receive unfashionable clothes that many young people would not want to wear for fear of getting picked on at school.

People tend to give away items that they don’t want, but charities say it’s best to give a gift that you would use or wear again. Before you think to give away your worst possessions, think about giving your best.

Continue Reading