Spring Cleaning with Purpose: Where to Donate Unwanted Items [London, Kitchener, Ottawa]
.jpg/v1/fill/w_320,h_320/file.jpg)
Monica de Wit- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
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.
🧹 London, Ontario
Located at 872 Dundas Street, this community-driven initiative supports individuals facing poverty by providing 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 offers 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.
This organization assists individuals experiencing homelessness. They accept donations of adult colouring books, coloured 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.
Located at 281 Wellington Street, accepts toiletries, new socks and undergarments for both men and women, 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.
Located at 566 Dundas Street, is a safe haven for women facing homelessness, violence, or poverty. They accept a wide range of items, including 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 between 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., and weekends from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Operated by Mission Services of London at 42 Stanley Street, supports families experiencing homelessness. They welcome donations of clothing, hygiene items, and other essentials that help families in transition. It’s best to contact them at (519) 673-4114 to confirm current needs.
Found at 520 York Street, 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
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.
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.
Harnessing local resources, knowledge, and networks to provide targeted and effective support to Ukrainian newcomers. Household donations are being accepted in specific areas (Waterloo Region, Thunder Bay, Sault Saint Marie).
Helping survivors of domestic violence recover and thrive. Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 11-7, Sat, Sun 10-5. Accepting furniture.
🧽 Ottawa, Ontario
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.
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, open 24 hours a day.
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; please contact them at boutique@dressforsuccessottawa.ca or call 613-761-1161.
If you have household tools you're no longer using, consider donating them to the Ottawa Tool Library. They lend tools to members for home and community projects. Donations can be dropped off at 250 City Centre, Bay #216.
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.
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.
Tip from Monica [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!
Comments