Spring Cleaning with Purpose: Where to Donate Unwanted Items [London, Kitchener, Ottawa]

Spring cleaning isn't just about tidying up—it's an opportunity to declutter and give back to the community.

Feeling overwhelmed by the thought of decluttering for yourself or a family member? HUGO and Company is ready to assist! We will declutter and downsize as part of your move process. Get in touch with us here, and we'll chat!

Now let's dive in! Here are organizations that welcome your gently used items, sorted by location.

Jump to: Kitchener, Ottawa

🧹 London, Ontario

LIFE*SPIN Free Store

Located at 872 Dundas Street, this community-driven initiative supports individuals facing poverty. They offer free access to clothing, household items, and more. They accept in-season clothing, small household appliances, bedding, and toiletries. Please ensure items are clean and in excellent condition.

Anova

Anova provides support to individuals affected by gender-based violence. They accept new and gently used clothing (excluding out-of-season items), as well as gift cards. However, they do not accept large appliances, furniture, or used baby equipment.

London Cares Homeless Response Services

This organization assists individuals experiencing homelessness. They accept donations such as adult coloring books, colored pencils, markers, board games/puzzles, and jewelry-making supplies. Donations can be dropped off at 602 Queens Ave.

Diabetes Canada

Diabetes Canada will pick up unwanted items. Check out their list for what they will and won't pick up.

The Salvation Army Centre of Hope

The Salvation Army at 281 Wellington Street accepts toiletries and new socks and undergarments for both genders. They also welcome non-perishable food items and financial donations. Their donation drop-off is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. For more details, you can reach them at (519) 661-0343 ext. 235.

My Sisters’ Place

Located at 566 Dundas Street, My Sisters' Place is a safe haven for women facing homelessness or violence. They accept new or gently used clothing, shoes, outerwear, jewelry, accessories, housewares, books, toys, electronics (flat screen TVs only), and even small furniture. Donations can be dropped off on weekdays from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and weekends from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Rotholme Family Shelter

Operated by Mission Services of London at 42 Stanley Street, they support families experiencing homelessness. They welcome donations of clothing, hygiene items, and other essentials to help families in transition. It’s best to contact them at (519) 673-4114 to confirm current needs.

Ark Aid Mission

Found at 520 York Street, Ark Aid serves individuals facing homelessness with clothing, food, and basic necessities. This small but impactful organization provides practical support where it’s needed most. Donations can typically be arranged by calling (519) 438-2111.

🧼 Kitchener, Ontario

Mill Courtland Community Centre

They operate a Free Clothing Room open to all ages. Spring cleaning items such as gently used clothing, shoes, and accessories are welcomed. Visit them at 216 Mill Street.

Value Village (Kitchener)

Partnered with Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy, donations at the Kitchener locations (120 Ottawa St N and 50 Gateway Park Dr) support their initiatives. They accept clothing, small appliances, toys, books, and more.

Grassroots Response

They harness local resources to provide targeted support to Ukrainian newcomers. Household donations are being accepted in specific areas (Waterloo Region, Thunder Bay, Sault Saint Marie).

Retail Therapy KW Thrift

Helping survivors of domestic violence recover and thrive, this thrift shop is open Wednesday to Sunday. They accept donations including furniture.

🧽 Ottawa, Ontario

Shepherds of Good Hope

Located at 233 Murray Street, they assist individuals experiencing homelessness. They accept donations of food, warmth, and household goods. Due to limited storage, they request that donors arrange drop-offs by filling out their donation form.

The Ottawa Mission

Situated at 35 Waller Street, The Ottawa Mission provides support to those in need. They accept men's hygiene items (new only), winter coats, boots, shoes, and new socks and underwear. Donations can be dropped off at their front desk, which is open 24 hours a day.

Dress for Success Ottawa

This organization empowers women and gender nonconforming individuals by providing professional attire. They accept seasonal, clean, and interview-appropriate clothing, shoes, and accessories. Donations are by appointment only—contact them at boutique@dressforsuccessottawa.ca or call 613-761-1161.

Ottawa Tool Library

If you have household tools you're no longer using, consider donating them to the Ottawa Tool Library. They lend tools for community projects. Donations can be dropped off at 250 City Centre, Bay #216.

Habitat for Humanity Greater Ottawa ReStore

These nonprofit home improvement stores accept donations of new and gently used home furnishings, appliances, and other materials. Funds generated support Habitat for Humanity's initiatives. There are multiple ReStores in Ottawa; visit their website for locations and donation details.

Matthew House Ottawa

Through our Furniture Bank, we help furnish homes for those rebuilding their lives—newcomers, low-income families, and individuals transitioning from homelessness.

Tips for Donating:

Check Donation Guidelines

Each organization has specific needs and restrictions. Review their guidelines to ensure your items are accepted.

Prepare Items

Clean and sort items before donating. This makes the process smoother for both you and the organization.

Arrange Drop-offs

Some organizations require appointments or have limited drop-off hours. Contact them in advance to schedule your donation.

By donating your unwanted items, you're not only decluttering your home but also supporting those in need within your community.

Inspiring Donation Tips

Here’s an insightful tip from Monica in London, Ontario:

"First, I schedule a pick up with Diabetes Canada. THEN, I arrange my donation items. By putting the pick up location in the calendar, I'm motivated to declutter."

Happy spring cleaning!