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Pass It On: A Resource-Full Guide to Donating Usable Stuff
A searchable database of our popular donation book
We are pleased to present our 6th edition of our award-winning Pass It On: A Resource-Full Guide to Donating Usable Stuff. This new edition was updated and printed in July 2014.
Since 1997, the District's book Pass It On: A Resource-Full Guide to Donating Usable Stuff has been helping many people pass on their unwanted but usable items to those in need. This online version of our popular booklet lists community service organizations that use donated items to support their work. These organizations work on behalf of youth, seniors, the homeless and others in Cuyahoga County and the surrounding area.
Scroll down to view a list of items to donate on the left. Click on a material and the list of organizations that accept that material will be viewable to the right.
Tips on Donating Usable Stuff
When donating your unwanted items make sure they are clean and in usable, working condition. Call the organization before dropping off your items. Donations that have not been arranged or have been left after hours can become "uncharitable" donations if they are not needed or are unusable.
This is not an exhaustive list. Other donation possibilities exist at your local school, church, theater company, pet shelter, nursing home or library. Be creative and think of who might benefit from your unwanted items.
Is My Donation Tax Deductible?
Your donation of used goods may be tax-deductible. Below are some general tax tips related to donating. For complete information contact your accountant or tax advisor.
- Individual contributions of $250 or more must be substantiated with written proof from the charity.
- The Internal Revenue Service lets taxpayers claim the "fair market value" of the item at the time the donation is made. While most charities will provide a receipt for your donation, most will not appraise the value of donated items. To help you determine the value of your donation, view IRS Publication 526, Charitable Contributions (for individuals) or IRS Publication 542, Charitable Contributions (for corporations).
- Contributions to civic leagues, social clubs and business leagues are not tax-deductible, nor are donations made to for-profit thrift stores or merchandise sold on consignment.
View and print a PDF of Pass It On: A Resource-Full Guide to Donating Usable Stuff (88 pages, July 2014). Request a hard copy (one per person) via our Publication Request Form or by calling (216) 698-2265.