If you've put off re-organizing and cleaning up your home because of how overwhelming the task seems, here is a motivation that may help. There are a variety of individuals and services that can make use of your old household items so you don't have to just throw them away. Not only will you declutter your house, but you'll be helping others. Here are a few ways that you can declutter your life and improve the lives of other people.

Appliances

If you have old stoves or refrigerators sitting in your garage, there are companies that will refurbish them and sell them at a discount. Many of these businesses will send a truck to your house and pick up the appliances.

Smaller appliances, such as toasters and microwaves, are always appreciated as a donation at thrift stores. This way the appliance gets used instead of ending up in the landfill.

Clothing

Coats and sweaters are good items to donate to a thrift store. Your community may have coat donation programs which distribute them to people in need during the cold weather months. Shoes are also a good donation item. Some programs ship shoes overseas to needy communities. Children's shoes are much appreciated by these programs.

Linen

Blankets and towels in good shape can be donated to thrift stores. Some local charities take blanket donations and distribute them to the homeless.

Vehicles

Connect with a local vehicle donation program like Action Donation Services to get rid of an old car or truck. It will be cleaned up and used by a non-profit organization in need of transportation. These programs will often come to your home to pick up the vehicle for you.

Food

Many cities have one or more food banks upon which people are dependent for groceries. Go through your kitchen cupboards and donate canned goods and box mixes that are still usable. Local organizations often hold food collection drives in the community. Firefighters and postal carriers are two such groups that often collect items for a local food bank.

Pet Supplies

Perhaps you have an extra dog bed or cat food dishes. Or you have a bird cage for a pet bird no longer with you. These can be given to local pet shelters to support their "guests" waiting to be adopted. There are also local programs that seek out homeless individuals and give them items to help them take care of their pets.

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