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One way to practice Earth Day Every Day is to reuse more and throw away less. Many things we no longer need can still be used by someone else.
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That extra set of dishes in your cabinet could help someone share their first meal in a new home.
When you donate items you no longer need, you're not just clearing clutter. You're helping neighbors, saving money, and keeping good stuff in use. In Portland, it's easy to do, thanks to some terrific local nonprofit organizations.
5 great places to donate
Community Warehouse
Community Warehouse supplies furniture and basic household items to families who need them. They accept tables, chairs, lamps, dishes, towels, and more. When you donate here, families can turn an empty space into a real home.
Habitat for Humanity ReStore
ReStore sells used building supplies, furniture, tools, and home goods at low prices. The money they make helps build affordable homes. Your old sink, light fixture, or dresser could help a family move into a stable place to live. Plus, you can buy salvage home renovation materials for your next DIY project at a steal. Check out info on donating with ReStore.
SCRAP Creative Reuse
SCRAP is a fun, creative reuse store. They take donations of craft supplies, paper, fabric, school supplies, and art materials. Teachers, artists, and kids shop here to find low‑cost items for projects. Donating here keeps materials out of the trash and fuels creativity.
Free Geek
Free Geek fixes and reuses old computers and electronics. They give low‑cost computers to people who need them. If the item can't be fixed, they recycle it safely. Donating your laptop or computer can help someone get online and reduce electronic waste.
Community Cycling Center
Got an old bike collecting dust? The Community Cycling Center accepts donated bikes and parts. They fix them up and get them into the hands of people who need affordable transportation.
Your donation can help someone get to work, school, or the grocery store—and keep a bike out of the landfill.
Donate to Community Cycling Center
How to get started in 5 easy steps
- Pick one room in your home.
- Find 3 items you don't use. (Look for things in good condition.)
- Ask, "Could someone else use this?"
- Sort and bag your items. Group them by type (clothes, kitchen items, electronics) so they're ready to go.
- Find out where to donate. Then put it on your calendar so it gets done.
Not sure where to donate? Use the Resourceful PDX map or call Metro's Recycling Information Center for expert advice on donating, reusing, and recycling.
Before you go: Check each organization's website for what they currently accept and their drop-off hours.
Donating furniture or bulky items? Some organizations offer pickup to make it easier.
Small actions can make a big impact
When you donate, you're doing more than cleaning out your home. You're helping a neighbor, saving money, and keeping useful items in circulation.
That's the Portland way—making the most of what we have and sharing what we no longer need.