What’s in your closet?

So, it’s a Saturday afternoon. You’ve decided to tackle that closet, cabinet, basement or garage that’s been driving you crazy. It’s full of stuff you don’t use and don’t know what to do with. Before you pitch everything in the trash, think for a minute.

You know the phrase - one person’s trash is another person’s treasure? Items you no longer use can be of great help to people in need. It just takes knowing where to give. Here are a few suggestions.

Clothing- You know that practically new sweater that you just don’t wear? How about that nice pair of shoes that is a little too tight? If you have gently used items like these, donate them to a local Goodwill store, Salvation Army or church.

Winter items- How many coats do you and your family really wear? How about gloves, scarves and hats? When’s the last time you used that football blanket? If you have winter items you’ve outgrown in size or style, donate them to a local shelter, Goodwill store or Salvation Army.

Toiletries- If you have travel sizes of shampoo, conditioner or soap that are piling up, or even combs, brushes, small towels, etc., consider donating them to a local homeless shelter. These little things can mean a lot.

Spare change- Find some dollars and cents? If you’ve gone this long without them, why not give them away? Drop your change in a charity change box at a store or gas station. Or if you find enough cash, write a small check to a favorite charitable organization. It all adds up!

Toys- Your kids may not be as attached to all of their toys as you might think. Ask them which ones are really their favorites. If they can spare a stuffed animal or two, donate them to a local domestic abuse shelter. Many who escaped abusive situations leave in the middle of the night with nothing. Having a toy that’s his or her own can help a child feel safe and comforted during a difficult time.

Duffel bags, backpacks or suitcases- You can donate these items to children in foster care. Research shows that children in foster care make an average of seven moves and often carry their belongings in garbage bags. Having an easy way to keep their things together can really help. See a local foster care agency or www.suitcasesforkids.org.

Bicycles, sporting goods and outdoor items- That bicycle you don’t ride or that Frisbee your kids don’t use could be the perfect donation for a local youth group or after-school program. The same goes for footballs, basketballs, outdoor game sets and plastic picnic items.

Canned goods- Do you have nonperishable food items cluttering up your cabinets? Donate them to a local hunger drive or food pantry. At any time of the year there are always people in need.

Books, movies and CDs- If you’re done reading the Anne of Green Gables series and you know your kids aren’t going to watch the Barney video again; it’s probably time to give them away. Donate them to a community library, school library or preschool.

Lawn equipment- If you have a weed eater, lawnmower or snow blower in your garage, think for a second. H