Over the past months, some furniture/household goods donations that started with very good intentions actually created problems for our program partner (Catholic Charities Thrift Store) and the ILYA (Independent Living for Young Adults) team. Donated items were missing parts, not in working order, damaged or need cleaning and couldn't be accepted. The thrift store has no resources to remedy those issues and in one instance had to pay for removal of items that were donated. Another time, after arranging for an additional truck and traveling quite a distance to pick it up, a donation was rejected because it was too dusty. This cost not only time but also gas money and inconvenience.
The thrift store imposes high standards for the donations out of respect for their clients. Just because someone doesn't have many resources they shouldn't be reduced to accepting damaged or unclean merchandise. They want to lift people up by offering quality merchandise… providing furniture and household goods that builds pride and confidence.
So please, only donate items that are clean, in good condition, with all their parts and in good working order. If you have any questions, contact J Harry Feldman and he'll be happy to guide you. A big thank you to all who have contributed to the success of this ILYA program.