Things to Do With Unwanted Gifts

Holidays/ Celebrations

By: mikicagle 22-Dec-2010

Introduction:

The gift giving season is here and it's a reality that you will probably receive a gift that you can't use, doesn't fit, or just don't want. Rather than standing in a long line at the store to return it here are some things you could do instead.

Clothing

If you receive a clothing gift that you won't be able to wear why not donate it to a local charity or church clothing closet? They will see that it goes to someone who needs it and you will feel great knowing that it won't sit in the back of your closet. If you receive business clothing like ties, suits, blouses or shirts there are special organizations that are set up to provide professional clothing to individuals who need them for a job interviews or for wearing to work.

Appliances

If you get a small appliance like a coffee maker, crock pot, can opener, etc. and you can't use it-SAVE IT. You can regift them to others for birthday gifts, wedding showers, and housewarmings. If you don't want to regift it-donate it to your child's school. As a teacher I know how nice it is to have those small appliances available when we have class parties or luncheons.

Video Games or DVD's

I can't think of anything better to do with a video game or dvd that you don't want or can't use than to donate it to BLUE STAR MOTHERS or The WALTER REED ARMY MEDICAL CENTER. Both organizations will see that your gift will go to either an active duty service member overseas or a injured service member currently hospitalized at the medical center.

Sports Equipment

Schools, youth organizations, or even your local daycare center would benefit from those sporting goods that you can't use. Footballs, basketballs, and even bicycles would get a ton of use by the grateful children. Or check with your school to see if they will be having a fundraising carnival in the spring. Your donated items could be used as raffle prizes.

Personal Care Items, Food Items

If you have unwanted gift sets of lotions, perfumes, soaps, or makeup you can donate those items to your local homeless shelter. The shelters will see that your gift goes to someone who really needs it. The shelter can always use your unwanted food gifts to give to others who are truly in need.

Final Thoughts

I hope that if you receive a gift this year that you can't use you will donate it to an organization that would benefit greatly from it or give it to someone who is in need.

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Comments

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mikicagle 12/22/2010
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Amylaine I am sure that your shelter will appreciate it. Our school does a drive every year for personal items to donate to our local domestic violence shelter. ElaineChastain thank so much for your kind words. I hope that the people that read this list are able to help someone else this Christmas.
Amylaine 12/22/2010
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I will try giving my lotions to the shelter this year. For some reason I always get lotion with things I am allergic to. I am always thankful for the gift but feel bad they spend there money on something that is going to sit in my drawer.
ElaineChastain 12/22/2010
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I'm Facebooking and Tweeting this list. What a great way to help others in need and it doesn't cost a thing. May all those who do this with their unwanted gifts be well rewarded and their hearts grow three sizes to contain the love they will get in return.