Where to Donate in Canada

Edited by Admin
Where to Donate in Canada
 
by Sarah Selhi
 

Stuff, stuff, stuff. We all have it. Whether it's something you've been holding onto for many years (and never used it) or the new items that show up at your doorstep to satiate your online shopping appetite, more and more people are living under a pile of belongings.

So, it's no wonder that celebrities like Marie Kondo and Jane Veldhoven are taking up the art of decluttering.

 

Ironically, you might think that people are parting with their belongings and donating to a good home. Not so. Since the mania of decluttering and KonMari have taken place, storage companies are busier than ever. It seems that while people agree to clear space, they don't appear so keen to completely part with 

these items either.  What is it that keeps people holding onto these items?

Spring "cleaning" is upon us (and the warm weather soon we hope), and numerous organizations and charities need your unwanted clothing and household items.

 

DO NOT THROW STUFF IN THE TRASH.

By keeping the waste off landfills, you'll not only be helping others, but also the environment. Moreover, although I love the idea of people sharing space, I also support the idea of donating all of your worldly goods to others. For this reason, I'm posting a comprehensive list of places where you can make donations across the country.

 
Did I miss some places in your community?? Please let me know by commenting in the section below. I'll be sure to update the article.

 

Where to Donate in Toronto

 

Dress for Success

Location: 188 Lowther Avenue, 3rd Floor Boutique,

Website: www.dressforsuccess.org

Inquiries: worldwide@dressforsuccess.org

Phone: +1 416-901-6022

This organization has locations across Canada. It’s the ideal place to pass on your new and gently used professional outfits—think, modern suits, blazers, blouses, pants, skirts, dresses, and sweaters. Besides, work-appropriate accessories like shoes, jewelry, and briefcases are acceptable. This organization is bent at providing support, development tools and, clothing for women looking to enter or return to the workforce. Mostly, their clients are individuals preparing for job interviews. Therefore, it is essential that you ensure everything you're donating clean laundered and pressed, or dry cleaned.

Open time for donation: Tuesdays between 10 am and 4 pm

Availability of pick-up service: No

 

H&M

Location: Across Canada. www2.hm.com

Support line: 1 855 272-7007

ICYMI, your local H&M takes donations of used clothing, shoes and accessories. Amazingly, the contributions don't have to be from H&M necessarily! The company accepts donations from any brand. In a bid to divert tones of textiles from landfills, H&M gives recycling partners the cloths to sort. The recycling partner then determines which clothes are viable for resale or recycling the fibers to produce other new products

When to deliver your donation: During regular store hours

Availability of pick-up service: No

 

GLOW Clothing Bank

Location: New Circles, 161 Bartley Dr.

www.newcircles.ca

Inquiries: info@newcircles.ca
Call: 416-422-2591

Fax: 416-422-5946

GLOW gives out free clothes to people with low incomes. When considering to donate, think seasonal. During spring, they accept tees, dresses, skirts, light sweaters, sandals, sun hats, and scarfs. When winter comes, it's all about warm weather wear. This organization also runs special initiatives like teen shopping days and a prom boutique.

 GLOW offers free extra clothes to needy patients at Mount Sinai Hospital's emergency ward.

When to deliver your donation: Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm; Thursday, 9 am to 7 pm

Availability of pick-up service: No

 

Double Take Store

Location: 310 Gerrard St. E.,

Website: www.ysm.ca

Email: doubletake@ysm.ca

Phone Call: 416-925-7198

Fax: 416-929-7204

This thrift store, is operated by the Yonge Street Mission and accepts used furniture, household items, and used clothing especially career-ready apparel. All the sales are used to fund the programs offered by the Mission in support of low-income families, seniors and those with physical and mental disabilities.

When to deliver your donations: Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm; Monday to Wednesday, 10 am to 7 pm; Thursday to Friday, 10 am to 8 pm; and on Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm;

Availability of pick-up service: Yes!

For furniture or large quantities of donations contact,

 

Oasis Clothing Bank

Location: 60 Camforth Rd., or check the site to find the closest drop-off bin, 

www.clothingbank.ca

Call Oasis Donation Center. 416-751-0553.

Check with their website to see what items they're accepting before you give your donation. However, they generally receive a wide array of also donations which include: clothing, shoes, beddings, kitchenware, stuffed animals, sports equipment, small electronics, the list is long. The donated items are presented to beneficiaries of Oasis Addiction Program or sold to fund the programs and services they offer

When to deliver your donations: Anytime in the various drop off bins

Availability of pick-up service: Yes!

In case you have bags of considerately used clothing, be sure to contact.

 
 

 

The Children's Book Bank

Location: 350 Berkeley Street (Gerrard Street & Parliament) Toronto, ON

www.childrensbookbank.com

info@childrensbookbank.com

Contact: 416-922-7323  

The Children's Book Bank stocks free books and provides educational support to children from low-income communities across Toronto. It operates a storefront space where school and camp groups, families and their children can visit to listen to stories and choose a book to take home to keep. This organization collects gently used children's books from families, publishers, and retailers.

 

Diabetes Canada

www.diabetes.ca

Email: info@diabetes.ca

Call: 416.363.3373

Courtesy of your donations, Diabetes Canada, can invest $5 million annually towards diabetes research which helps children and families with type 1 diabetes to attend camp programs. This organization recycles 100 million lbs. Of textile and household items from landfills and also supports 11 million Canadians who live with diabetes.

 

Furniture Bank

www.furniturebank.org

Email: info@furniturebank.org

Call: 416.934.1229

The Furniture Bank is a non-profit organization that takes second-hand furniture and gives it to those transitioning from homelessness or displacement. With support from the community, Furniture Bank built homes for almost 11,000 people in 2016 while providing jobs to the unemployed.

 

Habitat for Human ReStore

www.habitat.ca

Email: habitat@habitat.ca

Call: 416-644-0988

Fax: 416-646-0574

Habitat for Human ReStore runs charitable retail stores. In these stores, the donations include new and gently used home furnishings, appliances and renovation materials.

Habitat for Human ReStore sells these items at a fraction of the cost of the original price. Donors can give things they no longer need and get charitable gift receipts.

 

The Salvation Army

www.salvationarmy.ca

Email: donate@tstores.ca

Phone: 416-425-2111

One of the world's largest social service providers, the Salvation Army helps vulnerable families and individuals in 400 communities across the country. Salvation Army Thrift Stores receive clothing, housewares, furniture, electronics, toys, media and books, accessories, antiques and collectibles, and computers.

 

St. John the Compassionate Mission

www.stjohnsmission.org

Email: info@stjohnsmission.org

Tel: 416-466-1357

Fax: 416-466-3517

St. John's Thrift Store has a unique operational style of reinvesting donations to the community. The store also acts as a location where community members can meet to exchange news and connect. Here, volunteers' help and donations are always welcome.

 

Value Village

www.valuevillage.com

Email: 2038@savers.com

Phone: 416 539-0585

Value Village repurposes thousands of millions of items annually. This organization accepts used goods on behalf of its non-profit partners. The thrift retailer purchases resell and recycles gently used clothing, accessories, and household goods, helping non-profit organizations by paying them for donated items. By purchasing the used items, Value Village helps the non-profits to acquire the much-needed funding to run their programs.

 

New Circles

www.newcircles.ca

Email: info@newcircles.ca

Call: 416-422-2591     Fax: 416-422-5946

The chief purpose of this charity is to provide necessities like clothes to the less fortunate. You can as well donate to their clothing bank GLOW. They also offer outfits to Mount Sinai Hospital.

 

Jessie's Centre

www.jessiescentre.org

Email: mail@jessiescentre.org

Contact: 416-365-1888

Jessie's Center helps young mothers and expectant by providing them with mother and baby necessities. The Centre mainly accepts donations like baby clothes, clothes for young women and maternity wear.

 

Kidney Foundation of Canada

www.kidneyclothes.ca

Phone: 1-800-414-3484

This foundation's Kidney Clothes program accepts your pre-worn clothes and raises funds to help the foundation help Canadians grappling with kidney diseases.

 

Dress for Success

www.toronto.dressforsuccess.org

Email: info@dressforsuccesstoronto.org

Phone: 416.901.6022

To empower women, you drop off your lightly worn clothes at their head office at 5150 Yonge Street. Dress for success is always looking for outfits that can help boost the confidence of women during job interviews.

 

 

 

Dress Your Best

www.dressyourbest.ca

Email: info@dressyourbest.ca

This organization prepares men for success by offering guidance on personal styling for job interviews. To help kick start a new career, be sure to donate clean and professional clothing.

 

Suits Me Fine

www.camh.ca

Email: suitsmefine@camh.ca

Phone: 416 535-8501

Help clients of CAMH by donating to their community store on their Queen Street site. Suits Me Fine provides different types of clothes at no cost. To see how you can make your donation, ensure you contact them.

 

Really Really Free Market

www.rrfmarket.blogspot.com

Email: rrfmarket@gmail.com

Just like its name suggests, everything here is free. This market at Campbell Park is open on the first Sunday of every month. On this day, you are allowed to browse for an hour as you acquire anything that suits your style. With such an initiative, getting rid of your stuff becomes easy and enjoyable.

 

Pegasus Community Project

www.dsotoronto.ca

Email: dsotr@surreyplace.on.ca

Phone: 416-691-6835

This charity provides support to adults who suffer from developmental disabilities. To support this initiative, you can drop off your clothes at their office on Kingston Road.

The Pegasus Thrift Store uses the sales made from the donations to support their beneficiaries.

 

Yonge Street Mission

www.ysm.ca

Email: info@ysm.ca

Phone: 416-929 -9614

If you have high-quality clothes that you no longer wear, YSM's thrift store Double-Take provides you an opportunity to relinquish them. Located at 310 Gerrard East, these items are re-sold at very affordable prices.

 

Parkdale Activity-Recreation Center

www.parc.on.ca

Email: info@parc.on.ca

Phone: (416) 537-2262
Fax: 416 537-4159

This recreational Centre is home to people struggling with poverty and mental health issues. The Community Centre is explicitly looking for large and X-Large sizes. The clothes you donate need to be clean.

 

Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy

www.ofcp.ca

Call: 416 244-9686
Fax: 416 244-6543

If you have some used clothes that you no longer want, you can arrange with OFCP pick them up straight from your house for free. Additionally, you can donate items like coats, shoes, and the like at a donation bin near you.

 

Scott Mission

www.scottmission.com

Donation Line: 416-923-2400

Email: info@scottmission.com

To offer your donation to families in difficulty, you can send your gently used clothes to the mission during their open hours. Alternatively, you can have your donation picked up from your premises. However, you should note that it may take about one to two weeks for them to arrive.

 

Covenant House

www.covenanthouse.org

Email: info@covenanthouse.org

Phone: 416-598-4898

Located on Gerrard East, Covenant House only accepts used winter clothes. Therefore, if you have a warm coat that is not in use, be sure to call the organization to see if they need it.

 

Consignment Stores

www.consignmentcanada.com

Email: info@consignmentcanada.com

Phone: +1 604-980-1110

Do you have a brand-name treasure? Well, you can use it to make some extra bucks. By visiting one of the best consignment stores in Toronto, you can make some profit off your merchandise.

 

BC SPCA

www.spca.bc.ca

Email: abss@spca.bc.ca

Call: 604-681-7271

BC SPCA is a non-profit animal welfare society that enhances the quality of life for the farm, domestic and wild animals in B.C.

Location: You can drop off your donations at your local BC SPCA Thrift Store.

 

What you can donate:

  • Housewares
  • Items of furniture like chairs, sofas, tables, desks, lamps, and beds
  • Electronic equipment
  • Books
  • Curtains
  • China or Flatware
  • Appliances
  • Games
  • Clothing
  • Rugs

What you cannot donate:

Some stores do not take huge donations like appliances and furniture. Contact the store to know what they choose.

 

Savers

Locations: Niagara Falls. ON.  Also, East Park Plaza, Windsor, ON, Canada

www.savers.com

Phone: +1 905-354-6336 or +1 604-501-2111

With a global presence, Savers Thrift Stores provide communities with a smart way to shop by recycling gently used clothes, accessories and household goods.

Location: Contact a store near you to learn the donation procedure.

Items allowed for donations: 

1. Accessories like bags, socks, ties, hats, wallets, scarfs.

2. Clothing and Shoes.

3. Household electronics like radios, blenders, toasters, speakers, garden and work out equipment, and any toys.

4. Kitchenware like pans, utensils, pots, dishes, cups, and silverware.

5. Magazines, jewelry, books, and any home equipment.

 

Covenant House

Location: Donations can be delivered at 575 Drake Street Vancouver. 

www.covenanthousetoronto.ca

Phone: 604-639-8937 or by

Email: acotton@covenanthousebc.org.

Covenant House is a charity organization that supports young people who have suffered physical, emotional or sexual abuse. Most of the beneficiaries have either willingly escaped the oppression or forced out of their homes.

What you can donate:

  • Clean, age-appropriate clothing
  • Unused and unopened hygiene supplies
  • Foods that are not perishable
  • Books and magazines
  • MP3 and CD players, earphones and clock radios
  • Boots with steel toes
  • Household goods in stable working condition
  • Gently used beddings
  • Sleeping bags
  • Art supplies
  • Event tickets and outings
  • What you cannot donate:
  • Furniture
  • Beds and Mattresses
  • Used socks or underwear
  • Open or perishable food items
  • Open/used toiletry items
  • High heeled shoes
  • Perfume.
  • Knick-knacks & artwork

 

Where to donate in Vancouver

 

Big Brothers Vancouver

www.bigbrothersvancouver.com

Email: bins@renewcrew.com

Phone: 604-526-2447

Big Brothers Vancouver works towards supporting the development of children and youth.  It relies on mentorship programs which are led by volunteers.

Location: Find your local donation bin, or arrange a pick-up

What you can donate:

  • Clothing
  • Accessories, including belts, hats, and scarves
  • Purses, wallets, backpacks, and bags
  • Shoes and boots
  • Towels, tablecloths, curtains, and linens
  • Undergarments, nylons, and socks
  • Blankets, bedding, and pillows
  • Housewares, such as dishes, cutlery, and pots
  • Toys, books, games
  • Videos, records, CDs, and DVDs
  • Small tools
  • Small appliances

What you cannot donate:

  • Furniture

     

    Habitat for Humanity

    www.habitat.org

    Email: habitat@habitat.ca

    Phone: 416-644-0988

    In a bid to eradicate poverty, Habitat for Humanity enlists the help of community members and volunteers to build affordable houses.

    Location: There are two ways to offer a donation. You can drop your donations off at a ReStore (Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Alternatively, you may schedule a pick-up using the online donation form.

What you cannot donate:

  • Furniture – both new and gently used
    • Appliances
    • Tools
    • Bathroom
    • Kitchens
    • Building supplies  

    Downtown Eastside Women's Centre (DEWC)

    www.dewc.ca

    Email: centre@dewc.ca

    Phone: 604.681.8480

     

    DEWC provides necessities to children and women who are victims of addictions, poverty, homelessness, and violence.

    Location: 302 Columbia Street, Vancouver on weekends between 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., or weekdays (excluding Wednesday) between 10 a.m. to noon.

    What you can donate:

    • Blankets and linens
    • Towels
    • Toothbrushes and toothpaste
    • Feminine hygiene products (menstrual pads, incontinence supplies – Tena, Poise)
    • Any brand of toiletries
    • Socks, underwear, bras (new or gently used)
    • Coats and rain gear
    • Clothes for women
    • Footwear
    • Umbrellas
    • Alcohol wipes
    • Hand sanitizer pump dispensers
    • Reading glasses
    • DVDs, books, magazines
    • Supplies for art and craft

     

    Homestar Foundation

    www.homestars.com

    Contact: 1-855-569-0690

    This Christian Humanitarian Organization has channeled efforts towards providing furnishings to homes of people in need.

    Location: Pickup services are available from Vancouver, Burnaby (west of Royal Oak) to Richmond. To arrange for pick-up days & times, ensure that you make arrangements with the coordinator.

    What you can donate:

    • Night-tables & dressers
    • Kitchen & dining room tables
    • Chairs & sofas (no sofa beds)
    • Armchairs
    • Coffee tables
    • Bookcases
    • TV's & VCR/DVD players
    • Desks (not office-size)
    • Microwave ovens
    • Telephones & lamps
    • Rugs
    • No items with glass
    • Radios

     

    Rape Relief & Women's Shelter

    www.rapereliefshelter.bc.ca
    Call 604 876 0872
    Email info@rapereliefshelter.bc.ca

    Rape Relief & Women's Shelter's main aim is to eradicate male violence against children and women. To support this noble cause, you can make donations to the organization.

    Open from Monday to Friday 9.30-5.30.

    What you can donate:

    • Women underwear
    • PJs
    • Infant/ Children:
    • Baby formula
    • Baby wipes
    • PJs
    • Slippers
    • Sunblock
    • Baby soap and shampoo
    • Household Items for the Transition House
    • Tupperware
    • Pillows (not feather)
    • Hand towels, face cloths, bath mats
    • Duvets and duvet covers
    • Liquid hand soap (not bars of soap)
    • Dish soap
    • Ibuprofen
    • Dishcloths and towels
    • Single flat or fitted sheets white
    • Laundry detergent (ideally low or no scent)
    • Office Supplies and Miscellaneous
    • Copier paper 8.5 x 11
    • Paint, markers, button maker and supplies, labels, and others.
    • Tickets to activities, local events, entertainment
    • Transit passes – all zones
    • Gift Cards and grocery cards

    Covenant House Vancouver

    www.covenanthousebc.org

    Phone: 604-638-4438

    Email: info@covenanthousebc.org

     

    Covenant House Vancouver works with street youth by accepting donations of food, clothing, hygiene supplies and other items that can be beneficial to youth between the ages of 16 to 24.

    Location: Donations can be dropped off 24 hours a day at 575 Drake St. and at their alleyway drive-up drop-off during certain hours.

    Donations Needed: This organization has a high demand for soccer cleats and priority items like; sunscreen, water bottles, flip flops, and fans.

    Donations Not Needed: The charity does not accept furniture, used socks or underwear, open or perishable food items, used toiletries, high-heeled shoes, perfume, Knick knacks, and artwork.

     

    Downtown Eastside Women's Centre

    www.dewc.ca

    Email: centre@dewc.ca

    Phone: 604.681.8480

    The Downtown Eastside Women's Centre supports marginalized and vulnerable women. They accept donations that can help improve the situation of women. Among the approved items are clothes and selected household goods and toiletries.

    Locations: Donations can be dropped off at 302 Columbia St. during weekdays except on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to12 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

    (Note: The DTES Women's Centre is strictly feminine. Men who would wish to deliver donations, are supposed to ring the doorbell to alert the staff.)

     

    Donations Needed: The organization is always in need of incontinence supplies such as Tena or Poise, towels, rain gear, sanitary towels, toiletries, first-aid supplies, luggage or bags with wheels and winter clothing.

    Donations Not Needed: Children's clothing and toys.

     

    Union Gospel Mission

    www.ugm.ca

    Email: contact@ugm.ca

    Phone: 604.253.3323

     

    The Union Gospel Mission supports and provides access to community services to the homeless, the poor and recovering addicts. The UGM Thrift Store manages donations such as clothing and various items and distributes them for free to their guests. The thrift store also sells items at inexpensive prices to raise revenue to support the organization. Donation pick-up is available.

    Location: Donations can be delivered to 671 East Hastings Street from Monday to Friday between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

    Donations Needed: Men's and women's clothing, shoes, linens, small household items, bicycles, and some furniture.

    Donations Not Needed: Baby or children's items, bed frames and mattresses, large appliances and furniture, electronics older than ten years, ski or snowboard equipment, and unsold items from garage sales or church sales.

    For more information, open hours and accepted donations, visit their website.

     

    Big Brothers Vancouver

    www.bigbrothersvancouver.com

    Email: bins@renewcrew.com

    Phone: 604-526-2447

     

    Big Brothers receives donations and sells them to Value Village stores. The profits they generate go towards supporting Big Brothers programs. These programs include after-school mentorship outreach and volunteer recruitment and training. The organization accepts all sorts of clothing, accessories, shoes, household linens and bedding, housewares, toys, small appliances and more. Scheduled pick-ups are available by booking online.

    Location: 221 – 15 Braid Street, New Westminster.

    Open on Monday to Friday, between 8 a.m. till 6 p.m. and on Saturdays, from Midday till 5 p.m.

     

    Donations Needed: Anything that is suitable for resale and is in working order.

    Donations Not Needed: Soiled or torn items, potential safety hazards, furniture.

    For more information, open hours and accepted donations, check their website.

     

    Vancouver General Hospital Thrift Store

    www.vghthriftstore.ca

    Email: vghthriftstore@shawbiz.ca

    Phone:  604.876.3731

     

    The VGH Thrift Store is a non-profit store that receives donations and resells them. The proceeds are used to cater to patient services, volunteer programs at Vancouver Coastal Health facilities.

    Location: Donations can be made to the VGH Thrift Store at 2535 East Hastings St. (through the alleyway drop-off access), or the Centennial Pavilion ground floor hospital (access using hind service elevators) at 856 West 12th Ave.

    Donations Needed: Men's, women's and children's clothing, accessories, some furniture, household items, books, ski equipment, linens, CDs and DVDs.

    Donations Not Needed: computers, Mattresses or bed frames, futons, baby equipment, TVs, VCRs, VHS, and skates, microwaves, and items that require repair.

    For more information, open hours and accepted donations, visit their website.

     

    RAPS Thrift Stores (Richmond Animal Protection Society)

    www.rapsbc.com

    Call: (604) 244-7529

    Email: info@rapsbc.com

    .

    The RAPS Thrift Stores management is under a group of volunteers whereby 100 percent of proceeds go towards their animal care facility. Items accepted include household items, clothing, furniture, jewelry, books, toys and more.

    Location: There are two RAPS Thrift Stores located in Richmond;

    1. at 8260 Granville Ave and 9040 Francis Road.

    Open time is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except for Sunday when they open at noon. They also provide pick-up services for large items.

    Donations Needed: Items suitable for resale, clean and not broken such as Household items, furniture, collectibles and antiques, small appliances, jewelry, toys and games, sporting equipment, books, videos and DVDs, and seasonal items

    Donations Not Needed: Mattresses, large devices, old computers, non-functioning items.

    For more information, open hours and accepted donations, check their website.

     

    Wildlife Thrift Store

    Located in downtown Vancouver,

    www.wildlifethriftstore.com

    Phone: 604 267-1102

    Email: info@wildlifethriftstore.com

     

    Wildlife Thrift Store was initially a charity for the Wildlife Rescue Association. However, it currently partakes its yields with The Gathering Place, Coast Mental Health, Vancouver Rape Relief, Positive Living B.C., and Women's Shelter.

    Location:  Vancouver's Granville Strip, at 1295 Granville Street. There is also drive-by drop-off spot on Drake Street, just off Granville Street at the foot of Granville Bridge.

    Donations Needed: They accept all types of clothes, furniture, books and housewares which are in clean and good condition.

    Donations Not Needed: Mattresses, box springs, printers or baby equipment.

    For more information, open hours and accepted donations, visit their website.

     

    B.C. SPCA Thrift Stores

    www.spca.bc.ca

    Email: info@spca.bc.ca

    Phone: (604) 983-9522

     

    The B.C. SPCA has several thrift stores in B.C. and another two in Vancouver. The proceeds generated from operating the stores go toward the B.C. SPCA organization for animal care.

    Location: In the Lower Mainland, there are B.C. SPCA thrift stores located in Richmond, Surrey, North Vancouver and two in Vancouver. Each store may present different rules on drop-off and items accepted. Remember, B.C. SPCA shelters do not accept donations on behalf of the thrift stores (outlined further below).

    Donations Needed: The stores accept housewares, china, and flatware, electronic equipment, clothing, games, and books. However, not all receive furniture and appliances. Check out your store of choice to learn more. For pick-up services, you'll have to make arrangements with the store you want to give your donation.

    Donations Not Needed: Not all the stores accept large items such as furniture or appliances. Be sure to check before donating.

     

     

    Still Fabulous Thrift Store (B.C. Women's Hospital/B.C. Children's Hospital)

    www.stillfabulousthrift.com

    Email: tillfabulousshop@gmail.com

    Call: 604-566-9136

     

    Volunteers of the Auxiliary-run fabulous thrift store to the B.C. Children's Hospital and Auxiliary to the B.C. Women's Hospital. The facility channels revenue towards patient support services, programs, and equipment for the two hospitals.

    Location: There are two shop locations. However, they only accept donations at the Main Street store, located at 4355 Main St.

    The stores take donations during regular business hours.

    Donations Needed: The stores specialize in high-quality men's, women's and children's clothing and accessories.

     

    YWCA Metro Vancouver Thrift Store

    www.ywcavan.org

    Email:blane@ywcavan.org

    Phone. +1 604-675-9996

    The YWCA Metro Vancouver Thrift Store runs programs and services that enable women and their families to access services that protect them from poverty and violence.

    Location: The store is situated at 4399 Main St. near 28th Avenue in Vancouver.

    The pick-up days are from Tuesday to Saturdays. They operate from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. On Sundays they operate from Noon to 5 p.m.

    Donations Needed: The store accepts gently used clothing, books, and housewares. Book an appointment ahead of your visit to find out what they're currently taking.

    Donations Not Needed: Huge furniture or electronics.

    For more information, open hours and accepted donations, visit their website.

     

    Seva Thrift Store

    www.sevathrift.com

    Email: SevaThrift@gmail.com

    Phone: +1 778-293-0115

    Seva Thrift Store deals in ethnic clothing and the proceeds are used to fund local community projects and organizations. Over the past, this store has helped Neonatal ICU at Surrey Memorial Hospital to acquire a $10,000 Bili blanket that enables the treatment of neonatal jaundice.

    Location: The store is located at 9430 Scott Rd. in Surrey.

    Open time: from Tuesdays to Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on

    From Friday to Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

     

    Donations needed: The items accepted include: ethnic clothing (stitched or unstitched), three-piece outfits (salwar/kameez/chunni), saris, shawls, and others. They also take western-style clothing for men, women, and children, accessories, home decor, housewares, household linens, small appliances, and gardening tools.

    Donations Not Needed: The store does not take in large furniture, mattresses, televisions, large appliances, baby car seats, strollers or cribs.

     

    Community Thrift Store (Surrey Fire Fighters' Charitable Society/Surrey Hospice Society)

    www.surreyfirefighters.com

    Email: info@iaff1271.org

    Phone: (604) 599-9930

     

    Community Thrift Store is an initiative run by Surrey Hospice Society and the Surrey Fire Fighters' Charitable Society.

    Location: Donations can be made at the Community Thrift Store (7138 King George Blvd.) during operational hours or at any of the donation bins located at one of Surrey's staffed fire halls, which are:

    • Hall 4 – 14586 108 Ave.

    • Hall 6 – 9049 152 St.

    • Hall 8 – 17572 57 Ave.

    • Hall 9 – 14901 64 Ave.

    • Hall 11 – 12863 60 Ave.

    • Hall 13 – 15155 18 Ave.

    • Hall 15 – 18915 64 Ave.

    • Hall 17 – 15329 32 Ave.

    • Hall 18 – 8091 164 St.

    Donations Needed: Items accepted include proper condition clothing,  books, DVDs, records, jewelry, shoes and accessories, vases, kitchen appliances, cookware, small ornaments, unused stationery Knick knacks, linens, and wrapping paper.

    Donations Not Needed: microwaves, cribs, strollers, exercise equipment, Toys, baby high chairs, wired-in lights, televisions, computers, and furniture.

     

    Developmental Disabilities Association

    www.develop.bc.ca

    Phone: 604-273-4332

    Email: hello@develop.bc.ca

     

    The donations received by the Developmental Disabilities Association are channeled towards supporting programs and services for more than 1,800 victims of developmental disabilities together with their families in Vancouver and Richmond. These programs are available to both youth and seniors. The beneficiaries of the DDA program receive support throughout their life.

    Location: You can make your donation at the Donation Station (2643 No 5 Rd., Richmond)

    Open from Monday to Friday. Time: 7.00 in the morning to 3:30 p.m.

    Additionally, you can also donate at their head office (#100-3851 Shell Rd., Richmond) from Monday to Friday, 0830 to 1630h

    For free pickups, be sure to make a schedule through their website.

     

    Donations Needed: Clothes, table linens, towels, accessories (ties, hats, and belts), books, CDs, DVDs and records, bathing suits and undergarments, glassware, pans, sleeping bags, stationery supplies, small Appliances, sporting gear, toys, and games.

    Donations Not Needed: Furniture, mattresses, batteries, chemicals, cleaning products, construction materials (wood, pipes, doors, tubs, and cabinets), swing sets, food, cribs, car seats, hazardous waste, large appliances, flammable products, automobile parts, television, computer accessories, weapons, firearms, and explosives.

     

    Downtown Eastside Women's Centre

    Location: 302 Columbia St., dewc.ca

    www.dewc.ca

    Email: engagement@dewc.ca

    Call 604.681.8480

    Donations Needed: This organization accepts clothes, winter gear, footwear, purses, suitcases, glasses, blankets, books, and art used supplies. All of the donations are used to cater for women seeking a safe place to stay.

    Open days: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 10 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 4:30 pm; Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, 2 pm to 4:30 pm

    Availability of pick-up service: No

     

    Covenant House

    www.covenanthouse.org

    Email: info@covenanthouse.org

    Call: 1 (800) 388-3888

     

    Location: 575 Drake St., covenanthousebc.org

    Donations Needed: The most in-demand items are hoodies, jackets, and jeans.

    The Covenant House collects donations and provides them to the vulnerable youth of crisis programs.

    Covenant House accepts donations at any time. However, be sure to call 604-639-8937 to ascertain if they are need of the items you want to donate

    Availability of pick-up service: No

     

    SPCA Thrift Store

    www.spca.bc.ca

    Email: info@spca.bc.ca

    Phone: (604) 736-4136, (604) 321-8144


    Location: There are different locations around the province, spca.bc.ca

    Donations needed: This store accepts clothing, housewares, furniture, rugs, curtains, appliances, electronics, games, and books.

    The stores take the donations to SPCA shelters.

    Delivery time varies depending on the store you choose

    Availability of pick-up service: Some locations provide pick-up service. Ensure to check with your area of choice to determine whether they offer the pick-up service.

     

     

    Miscellany Finds

    www.miscellanyfinds.ca

    Email: info@miscellanyfinds.ca

    Call: 604-215-9970

     

    Location: 2615 East Hastings St.; 1029 Commercial Drive, miscellanyfinds.ca

    Donations Needed: This store accepts everything ranging from basics and vintage clothing to designer labels, housewares, shoes, jewelry, accessories, and books. The earnings are for running the Vancouver Rape Relief & Women's Shelter social programs that empower youth and women.

    Open from Monday to Saturday, from 10 am to 6 pm; Sunday, from 12 p.m. till 5 p.m.

    Availability of pick-up service: No

     

    Atira Women's Resource Society

    Location: 201-190 Alexander St., atira.bc.ca

    www.atira.bc.ca

    Email: donations@atira.bc.ca

    Call: +1 604-331-1407

    Donations Needed: The items that are always on demand include children's and ladies' clothing, pajamas, bedding, winter pieces, baby items, towels, toys, and household items. All donations are used to support women in the shelter who suffer from substance abuse, mental illness, violence, and homelessness.

    Availability of pick-up service: No

     

    Where to Donate Clothes in Edmonton

     

    Hope Bargain Shoppe

    Location: 2403 Ellwood Dr. SW.

    www.thespiritedthrifter.com

    Email:info@thespiritedthrifter.com

    Call: +1 780-485-6888

     

    Donations Needed: Donate clothing and footwear for men, women, and children, along with books, games, music, housewares, jewelry and vintage collectibles. The donations from this shop are used to fund Hope Mission which provides elemental and emergency care to the homelessness.

    Open from Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm

    Availability of pick-up service: No

     

    Youth Empowerment & Support Services (YESS)

    Location: 9310 82 Avenue, yess.org

    www.yess.org

    Email: reception@yess.org

    Call: +1 780-468-7070

     

    Donations Needed: Basics items are always on demand. These include hoodies, workout clothing, pajama bottoms, backpacks and shoes in all sizes. Be sure to also check the urgent needs list for kids who have enlisted for the long-term residential program. The residential program provides youth with shelter, counseling, legal assistance, and housing advice. All the donations are used to support the programs run by the organization.

    Open time: Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 4:30 pm.

    Availability of pick-up service: No

     

    Bissell Centre

    Location: 10527 96 St., bissellcentre.org

    www.bissellcentre.org

    Email: reception@bissellcentre.org

    Phone: 780.423.2285

     

    Donations Needed: Bissell Centre accepts new and gently used clothing, accessories and household items. The contributions are used to stock the organization's Community and Family Closet, which gives free clothing to the needy. The donations also stock the Thrift Shoppe, which allows customers to purchase affordable clothing and household goods.

    When to donate: Bissel Centre Thrift Shoppe, 8818-118 Ave., Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 4:30 pm; South Side, 5120-122 St., Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 4 pm.

    The wing at Bissel Centre Downtown, 10527-96th St. is opened from Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm.

     

    Availability of pick-up service: No

     

    Where to Donate Clothes in Calgary

     

    Calgary Drop-In & Rehab Centre

    Location: 3640 11A St. NE

    www.calgarydropin.ca

    Contact: (403) 266–3600

    Email: info@calgarydropin.ca

    Donations Needed: This organization receives donations of clothing, household items, computers, cell phones, and books. The donations are used to stock a free ‘store' which is open to the less fortunate. They distribute up to 100,000 pieces of clothing annually.

    Open time: from 8 am to 4 pm daily.

    Availability of pick-up service: No

     

    WINS Women in Need Society

    Location: 128-1220 28th St. NE, womeninneed.net

    www.womeninneed.net

    Email:dispatch@womeninneed.net

    Call: (403) 252-3826

     

    Donations Needed: This organization accepts gently used clothing, shoes, accessories, jewelry, home décor, sporting equipment and furniture which are used to stock their five thrift stores. The income from the thrift shops is used to support the Free Goods Referral Program and four Family Resource Centers.

    Open from Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 4:30 pm

    Availability of pick-up service: Yes! Call to book.

     

    My Best Friend's Closet

    Location: 6516 1A Street SW, makingchangesassociation.ca

    www.mybestfriendscloset.biz

    Email: info@mybestfriendcloset.biz

    Contact: (701) 212-1567

    Donations Needed: This Calgary based organization helps women to make transitions in their style. More to that, they also accept donations of anything teens' stuff, such as leggings, athletic wear, skirts, jeans, sweaters, sneakers, and all-season coats. The received items go to My Best Friend's Closet, a resource for teenage girls mostly from low-income homes. Teens enjoy a one-on-one consultation for 90-minutes with a volunteer image stylist. There is also peer support plus a selection of free stylish clothing and accessories to suit their school and recreational needs. (There's also another program dubbed The Walk-In Closet, which provides outfits to women looking to re-join the workforce.)

    Open every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, from 10 am to 4 pm, and some Saturdays, from 10 am to 4 pm

    Availability of pick-up service: No

     

     

    Where to Donate Clothes in Saskatoon

     

    Community Living

    www.communitylivingmo.org

    Email:info@communitylivingmo.org

    Call: 1-877-477-2171 or (636) 970-2800

     

    Location: Visit their shop at 108-103rd St. E. or look out for the numerous bright yellow bins around the province. Check their website for the closest area to you, theyellowbin.com

    Donations Needed: If you are looking to clean out more than just your outfits, this is the ideal place to donate. At Community Living, you can present clothing, shoes, linens, books, dishes, toys and games. However, large appliances like furniture and tech are unacceptable. Sales from the donations are used to support people with intellectual disabilities and their families. The help rendered by the organization may be in the form of rent, groceries, finding jobs or social activities

    Open daily anytime!

    Availability of pick-up service: Yes, or fill out the online form and to make arrangements for pick up time

     

    YWCA Opportunity Shop

    Location: 511 First Ave. N., ywcasaskatoon.com

    www.ywcasaskatoon.com

    Call: +1 306-242-8002

    Email:info@ywcasaskatoon.com

     

    Donations Needed: Items like gently used quality clothing are accepted and sold at this shop to both the clients of the YWCA and the public. The money raised is channeled towards running programs aimed at helping women and families to fight poverty, homelessness, and violence.

    The best time to donate is from Monday to Friday from 10 am to 3 pm.

    Availability of pick-up service: No

     

    CWL Clothing Depot

    Location: 619-20th St. W. rcdos.ca

    www.friendshipinn.ca

    Phone: +1 306-242-5042

    Email:info@friendshipinn.ca

     

    Donations Needed: CWL clothing depot accepts all kinds of clothing and household items. The donations require to be in good shape as they are for reselling. The revenue is then used to support local charities.

    They are open for donations on Monday to Friday from 9 am till 3:30 pm

    Availability of pick-up service: Call to schedule a pickup

     

    Where to Donate Clothes in Winnipeg

     

    The Clothes Closet

    www.swfic.org

    Email: registrar@swfic.org

    Contact: 204.284.9311

     

    Location: Fort Garry United Church, 800 Point Road, Lower Level, swfic.org

    Donations Needed: The Clothes Closet accepts clean work wear.

    Clads for interviews are of high demand in Canada. The donation includes suits, jackets, pants, blouses, skirts, shoes, coats, and accessories. The organization also accepts plus size outfits. Your donation will help women who have left abusive relationships to prepare for interviews or those joining job training. The Clothes Closet is a reputable organization as it serves clients from over 65 partnering agencies within Winnipeg.

    Open from Monday to Friday from 9 am to 4 pm

    Availability of pick-up service: No

     

    The Up Shoppe

    www.upshoppe.ca

    Phone: +1 204-582-3494

    Email: upshoppe@newscentre.org

     

    Location: 382 Selkirk Ave., upshoppe.ca

    Donations Needed: The Up Shoppe takes clothing and accessories for women, men, and children and also bedding and small household items. In a partnership with the North End Women's Centre, this boutique sells donated items to raise money for needy women which enables them to provide employment and job training.

    Open from Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4:30 pm

    Availability of pick-up service: No

     

    Siloam Mission

    www.siloam.ca

    Email:info@siloam.ca

    Phone: +1 204-956-4344

     

    Location: 309 Logan Ave., siloam.ca

    Donations Needed: The best items to donate to this mission are outerwear, jeans, and hoodies. Visit their website for updates of what they need.

    Open from Monday to Friday, 8 am to 7:30 pm, and Saturday, Sunday and Holidays, 8 am to 4:30 pm

    Availability of pick-up service: No

     

    Where to Donate Clothes in Ottawa

     

    St. Vincent de Paul

    Location: 1273 Wellington St. W. and 1620 Merivale Rd., thrift-store.ca

    www.ssvp.ca

    Tel: (613) 837-4363

    Email: national@ssvp.ca

     

    Donations Needed: The two thrift stores are open to members of the public to purchase items cheaply. Families in need also get free clothing and furnishings. The most acceptable donations are those of clothing, toys, furniture, and household goods. The proceeds from the sale of items are used to run local community programs

    You can drop off anytime in the collection bins located across the city or at the thrift stores (Monday to Wednesday, 9 am to 5:30 pm; Thursday to Friday, 9 am to 8 pm; Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm). Alternatively, you can schedule a pick up for larger pieces

    Availability of pick-up service: Yes, for larger items like furniture and beds.

     

    Carty House

    www.cartyhouse.org

    Email: office@cartyhouse.org

    Phone: 613 236 8855

     

    Donations Needed: This organization provides shelter for female refugees and provides them with learning opportunities, counseling, and other support services. They receive donations like clothing, bedding, appliances, towels, cleaning supplies and all kinds of household items. It is essential that all the donations to be in proper condition as they will be used to uplift the status of the beneficiaries.

    Availability of pick-up service: No

     

    Clothesline (across Canada)

    www.diabetes.ca

    Phone Contact, 1-800-505-5525

    Location: Across Canada. Find the drop box nearest to you on their website.

    Donations needed: Clothesline enjoys a great relationship with Value Village. All the donations are sold to raise money for diabetes research, support programs and funding D-Camps for kids. These organizations accept a wide variety of donations which include clothing, small appliances, fitness items, toys, kitchenware, home décor, luggage, and tools.

    Open at 24/7

    Pick-up service is available.

     

    Where to Donate Clothes in Montreal

     

    Le Support

    Location: Blue donation boxes are located all over the city.

    www.lesupport.ca

    Email: info@lesupport.ca

    Contact: 514-725-9797

    Le Support accepts a wide array of items except for furniture. They then resell the collection to Value Village, brokers abroad and second-hand stores. They use the income towards supporting people with intellectual disability by giving them house aid, equipment and funding their activities.

    Open at any time.  Pick-up service is available

     

    Renaissance

    Location: Visit renaissancequebec.ca to find a thrift store or drop box location

    www.renaissancequebec.ca

    Email: information@renaissancequebec.ca

    Phone: 514-276-3626

    Donations Needed: This organization accepts any kind of donation apart from furniture. The items are distributed across their Thrift stores network and sold cheaply. The revenue is used to fund training programs in the community.

    Open during thrift store hours, or anytime at drop boxes

    Availability of pick-up service: No

     

    Sun Youth

    Location: 4251 St. Urbain St.

    www.sunyouthorg.com

    Email:bvt@sunyouthorg.com

    Phone: 514.842.5241

    Donations Needed: Sun Youth accepts clothing, essential household items, and small electrical appliances. These items are available to local teens and their families very cheaply.

    Open every day between 8 am and 9 pm

    Availability of pick-up service: No

     

    Where to Donate Clothes in Moncton

     

    Boutique Encore

    www.maison-nazareth.org

    Phone: (905) 497-2765

    Email:info@encorethroftstore.ca

    Location: House of Nazareth, 14 Clark St.

    Donations Needed: This boutique accepts gently used clothing, furniture and small household items which are channeled to the organization's short-term and emergency shelter or offered to other organizations. One of the organizations that benefit from these donations is New Brunswick Multicultural Council, helps refugees find a settlement in the locality.

     The shelter is open 24/7. No of pick-up service availability:

     

    Where to Donate Clothes in St. John's

     

    St. John's Women's Centre Clothing Boutique

    www.sjwomenscentre.ca

    Email:reception@sjwomenscentre.ca

    Phone: (709) 753-0220

     

    Location: 170 Cashin Ave., margueritesplace.ca

    Donations Needed: Items accepted here are used to support women who earn a meager income or who lack shelter and victims of violence. These vulnerable groups of women can book a monthly appointment where they pick outfits that suit their style. The donations required are seasonal especially sizes large, x-large and for plus-sizes.

    Call to make arrangements to donate.

    Availability of pick-up service: No

     

    Previously Loved Clothes and Things

    Location: 351 Kenmount Rd., epilepsynl.com

    www.epilepsynl.com

    Email: info@epilepsynl.com

    Phone: +1 709-753-7283, 709-722-5571

     

    Donations Needed: This thrift shop accepts all kinds of clothing, outerwear, shoes, household items, small appliances, furniture, toys, sporting equipment, and seasonal decorations. The donated items are re-sold through the thrift shop, and all the proceeds are plowed back into the community to run programs supported by Epilepsy Newfoundland and Labrador.

    When the store is open between Mondays to Sunday, 9:30 am to 9:30 pm

    Availability of pick-up service: Yes!

    Call to schedule pick-up time.

     

    Where to Donate Clothes in Halifax

     

    The Brunswick Street Mission

    Location: 2107 Brunswick St.

    www.brunswickstreetmission.org

    Email:bsm1@eastlink.ca

    Phone: 902 423 4605

     

    Donations Needed: This mission accepts used clothes and shoes for all age groups, small household items, recent magazines, and books.

    Open from Monday to Friday, 9 am to 2 pm

    Availability of pick-up service: No

     

    Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Halifax

    Location: All over Halifax. Visit their website to get their pick-up locations.

    www.halifax.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca

    Email: halifax@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca

    Call: (902) 466-5437 or 902-454-4025

    Donations Needed: This charity accepts used clothes, shoes, accessories and household textiles (like bedding, blankets, and drapes).

    Sales realized from the donations are used to fund youth mentoring programs run by the charity.

    Open at any time. You can drop your donation in any of the yellow and purple bins across the city, or schedule a pickup

    Availability of pick-up service: Yes! Call to arrange a pick-up.

     

    Where to Donate Clothes in Charlottetown

     

    First Impressions

    Location: 180 Brackley Point Rd.

    www.firstimpressionsmd.org

    Email: info@firstimpressionsenterprises.org

    Phone: 301-684-8854

     

    Donations Needed: First Impressions needs you considerately used professional and casual clothing, shoes, accessories, and handbags. This charity supports women who are attending interviews, going back to school and fleeing violent situations at home. The donated items are put up for re-sold for $5 at their shop or given for free to the needy in local schools and nursing homes.

    Open from Monday to Thursday, from 6 pm to 8 pm, and Sunday, from 12 pm to 2 pm

    Availability of pick-up service: No

     
    Cover image by Dan Gold on Unsplash
    Books Photo by Giulia Bertelli on Unsplash
    Dresses Photo by Becca McHaffie on Unsplash
    Dogs Photo by Anoir Chafik on Unsplash