Clothing donation is a great way to declutter your closet while also helping those in need. However, not all donated items end up in the hands of those who could benefit from them. To ensure that your donated clothing goes to a good cause, there are some dos and don'ts to keep in mind.
 

Dos and Don'ts of Donating Clothing to Charitable Organizations
 

Do:

1. Clean your items before donating them: Items should be in good condition and free of stains and tears. This will increase the chances of your donation being accepted and given to someone who needs it.

2. Research the organization you plan to donate to: Check their website or give them a call to find out what items they accept and what their policies are. This can help ensure you’re donating items they need.

3. Donate items that are appropriate for the season: For example, donate winter coats in the fall and summer clothes in the spring. This helps ensure there is enough supply to meet any potential clothing demands.

4. Donate items that are in demand: Like donating seasonal clothing, this helps ensure there are enough clothes to meet various needs. This could include clothing for children, plus-size clothing, and professional attire.

Don't:

1. Don't donate items that are damaged or stained: Donating damaged or stained items is not helpful as charities and organizations that accept donations generally have limited resources to repair or clean items. Furthermore, it may not be safe to donate damaged or stained items.

2. Don't donate items that are heavily scented with perfume or smoke: When donating clothes or other items, it's important to make sure they are clean and odor-free. If you smoke or wear perfume heavily, the items you donate may retain the scent, making them unpleasant for someone else to wear. 

3. Don't donate items that are too worn out or faded: Before donating, take a close look at the items you're considering and ask yourself if they are still in good enough condition to be used by someone else. If an item is too worn out, faded, or damaged to be used, it's better to dispose of it responsibly rather than donating it.

4. Don't donate items that are not appropriate for the season: When donating items, it's important to keep in mind the current season. Donating items that are not appropriate for the season can be a waste of resources and space. For example, donating winter coats in the summer may not be helpful as they won't be needed until later in the year.

If you are looking for a charitable organization to donate your gently used clothing to, consider Shepherd's Pantry. They are a non-profit organization serving communities within Glendora, La Puente, Irwindale, and the surrounding areas. You can contact them at (626) 852-7630 or visit their website to learn more about how you can donate your clothing to help those in need.