Why It’s Great to Donate During the Holidays

Cleaning out your closet is the gift that keeps on giving.

Divide and Conquer - Survey your closet, then take a deep breath. Yes, there’s a lot going on in there, but start small with three piles: “keep,” “toss” and “donate.” Have you worn that sweater in the past 12 months? If not, consider donating. Anything with visible stains, holes and extensive wear and tear goes in the “toss” pile. (Photo: Blend Images/JGI)

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Divide and Conquer - Survey your closet, then take a deep breath. Yes, there’s a lot going on in there, but start small with three piles: “keep,” “toss” and “donate.” Have you worn that sweater in the past 12 months? If not, consider donating. Anything with visible stains, holes and extensive wear and tear goes in the “toss” pile. (Photo: Blend Images/JGI)

Giving Is Good - If you’re anything like us, your closet is screaming for a makeover. But as the time of giving is upon us, there’s never been a better reason to clean out your stash and give to people in need. When you donate clothing to a charitable organization, you’re helping families, military vets and many others get back on their feet — and that’s definitely something to feel good about. Here’s everything you need to know to get started. By Britt Middleton 

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Giving Is Good

Make a Day of It - You’re doing some major good here, so why not get your girls involved? Throw a soirée with light bites and drinks and have your friends each bring a bag to sort and donate. Think about the difference you’re making in the lives of others as motivation.  (Photo: JLP/Jose L. Pelaez/Corbis)

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Make a Day of It

What to Give - Especially during the colder seasons, jackets, sweaters, scarves, gloves, hats, socks and boots are in high demand, so consider making those your first priority.  (Photo: Tammy Hanratty/Corbis)

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What to Give

Not All Donations Are Created Equal - While most charities accept all forms of clothing, some do have specific guidelines. If you’re unsure about the item, call or check with the organization's website before you donate. (Photo:  Hero Images/Corbis)

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Not All Donations Are Created Equal

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Clean and Orderly - Even if you haven’t worn the item in a while, it doesn’t hurt to give it a wash before donating. A good rule of thumb to remember is that the clothing should be in as good of condition that you would buy or wear yourself.  (Photo: Noah Clayton/GettyImages)

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Clean and Orderly

Giving and Getting - Donating clothing is tax deductible, and most charities will provide you with a donation slip declaring the estimated value of the items you’ve donated. Be sure to hold on to this and file with your federal tax return. (Photo: JGI/Jamie Grill/Blend Images/Corbis)

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Giving and Getting

Where to Donate - Local churches or well recognized organizations like the the Salvation Army and Goodwill are great places to start, and it’s likely that there’s a branch near you. There are even organizations online that will accept your donations via mail; just be sure to do your research about the company to ensure its legitimacy.  (Photo: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) 

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Where to Donate