Where to Donate Old Clothes

by Lexi, Day-Riverside Branch

Cleaning out your closet anytime soon? We all have clothes we grow out of, be it size or style. When we throw clothing away in the garbage, it can take more than 200 years for the materials to decompose in a landfill - where textiles tend to generate greenhouse methane gas and leach dyes into the soil. Want some alternative solutions? Here are … great places to donate clothes. Not only will you be cleaning out your closet, but you’ll be protecting the environment and contributing to the community if you bring your old threads to any of the following:
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YWCA
Young Women’s Christian Association
This excellent organization is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. Any clothing donated to the YWCA will be used to encourage women’s aspirations and meet their changing needs. Please note, there is no need to limit the clothes you donate to women’s garments, they accept clothing for everyone! Click here to schedule a donation.

Under the Umbrella Bookstore
This is genuinely my favorite new bookstore! It’s such a wonderful place. This bookstore goes out of its way to provide a safe space for queer folks of all ages. They host a Gender-Affirming Closet, (so wholesome)! They are looking for more specific items - please only  bring them lightly used and somewhat nicer clothing items, (not necessarily survival items). While you’re there, look around! It’s adorable!

The Other Side Academy
​The Other Side is a 501(c) non-profit organization dedicated to helping the previously incarcerated, unsheltered and substance abusers change their life. They have a comprehensive two-year residential program with vocational training, education and transitional services. Guess what? They have a Thrift Boutique in Salt Lake City! Check out this page, to learn how to donate your clothes. 

Youth Resource Center
Volunteers of America
If you are getting rid of your cool teen clothes, wouldn’t it be cool if they went to another teen? We think so. The Youth Resource Center is a resource center and emergency shelter for all youth aged 15-22. They provide food, laundry, life skills, safe space, dental assistance and? CLOTHES! Here’s how you can donate your gently used clothing on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays. You won’t regret it!

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