Charity begins before your move
Clean breaks
If you have a vanity full of unused toiletries from hotels (you know, the trial size toothpaste, mouthwash, shampoos, conditioner, lotions, and shower caps), they can go to homeless women via Sarah’s Circle (773-728-1991, ext. 301). Similarly, Pacific Garden Mission (312-243-2480) is in need of hygiene kits for the homeless.
Clothes make the woman
To help underprivileged girls go to prom, Women’s Club of Evanston-Dreams Delivered (847-475-3800) accepts evening wear and accessories, just as Poised for Success (630-691-1455) can use women’s in-season business attire to help working women on financial assistance.
An eye for an eye
One Sight (888-935-4589) will take your unwanted prescription glasses, sunglasses or bifocals and send them around the world to those who cannot afford eye care. Simply drop off your glasses at local Lenscrafters, Sunglass Hut, Pearle Vision, Target Optical and Sears Optical stores.
Stepping stones
Rid yourself of those rarely-worn and gently-used shoes stacking up in your closet by donating them to the Purple Heart Veterans (708-396-8995), Vietnam Veterans of America (708-371-4418) and Soles 4 Souls (866-521-SHOE).
Get connected
World Computer Exchange accepts computers and computer hardware on behalf of schools and institutions in developing countries while the Sports Shed (847-719-7320) will take sporting equipment in good shape and pass it to under-resourced areas with sports programs.
The bigger, the better
Certain appliances in good working condition can benefit various community agencies if they are donated first to The Sharing Connection (630-971-0565).
Giving specialty donations will make you feel special and help your packing process. Then all you have to do is call Golan’s movers in Chicago and your move will soon be complete.