Got a closet full of clothes from a few grades ago? If you're looking for ways to help out the less fortunate, giving away your old clothes could be a super-easy start.

Start by asking yourself these questions:

• Do you really need 20 sweaters from 7th grade? You might not, but a kid whose family is struggling could really use one to stay warm.
• Is the environment one of your causes? Reuse and recycle! Just because you don't wear that favorite belt from 2 years ago doesn't mean somebody else won't think it's fantastic. Lots of enterprising designers recycle old clothes into handmade toys or new outfits.
• Do you need to make room for the holiday gifts coming your way? Out with the old, in with the new! Plus, you'll get a headstart on that New Year's resolution to stay organized.

So now it's time to start sifting through those crammed closets. As you work, keep these organization basics in mind:

• Let go. If you haven't worn something in a year or two, chances are you won't miss it.
• Set a target. Maybe for every two items you keep, you give up one.
• Donate more than just clothes. Go through your old books, jewelry, purses, sports gear, etc.
• Use your imagination. Although donation centers like Goodwill are great for offloading old stuff, plenty of other organizations could use your things, too. Try places like women and children's shelters or maybe organizations that help teen mothers, migrant workers' families, or people displaced by fires or natural disasters. There are even places that donate your old homecoming and prom dresses to girls who really need them.
• Call ahead. Not every organization or shelter wants used stuff. Some accept "gently used" items, but many will only take new ones. Find out what the organizations need — and what they don't.
• Be a courteous donor. Chuck clothes with stains, tears, or holes.
• Get your friends or family members involved. Ask them if they can find anything they'd like to give, too. You could also ask your folks about advertising your free stuff on websites like Craigslist or Freecycle.

Doing good can be contagious. You may decide to keep the spirit of giving going year round — not just during the holidays. Look for other opportunities to help out on your own or as a family.

You'll be amazed at how being generous toward others who don't have as much can open your eyes to all the remarkable things to be grateful for in your own life.

Reviewed by: Steven Dowshen, MD
Date reviewed: December 2008

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