How to Donate Useful Items to Shelters for Abused Women and Their Children

2 Million women will be abused by their intimate partner each year.

To honor National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (October), many people may find a desire in their heart to make a difference. Since nearly 2 million women are abused by their intimate partner each year (not to mention the effects on their innocent children), chances are high that you know someone victimized by domestic abuse, or have been in an abusive relationship yourself this article . This article will give detailed information on how to go about making donations of goods and services which will directly benefit battered women and their children in your local area.

Things You'll Need

• Suggestions:
• Women's clothing, shoes and accessories in all sizes (new or gently worn) ranging from casual wear/jeans to suits, etc suitable for job and housing interviews
• Children's clothing and shoes in all sizes
• Games, toys and dolls
• Basic household furnishings and necessities (clocks, mirrors, frames, lamps, linens, dinner ware, etc.)

Instructions

1. Look up the phone numbers to Battered Women's Programs in your area (refer to Domestic Violence services listed in the yellow pages or online), and begin making calls. Ask what type of items they accept and/or need, and keep notes. The address/location of most shelters and transitional residences for abused victims are kept confidential for safety purposes, therefore it's likely someone will make arrangements with you to have your donations picked up.

2. As you perform your routine 'fall cleaning', check around for items you no longer need or use, or perhaps are even eager to let go of. Include small household appliances, sheets and bedding, towels, children's games and toys, even home decorations such as empty photo frames, clocks, or mirrors. Each program will have it's own specific 'wish list', as well as items not accepted by donation. As a general rule, most shelters will appreciate charitable gifts of new or gently used clothing, shoes and accessories (mostly women's and children's, in all sizes). Many will take brand new, unopened bath and personal products (toothbrushes, lotions, nail care, etc.)

3. Be sure all your donations are clean and in good condition. Bag or box smaller items for portability and ease of storage once at their destination.

4. Feel free to request a receipt for your donation for your personal tax purposes.

Tips & Warnings

• The actual recipients of your charity will come from all walks of life. As victims of domestic violence, left with little choice but to leave the situation, they've been displaced from their homes. Keep in mind that seeking temporary safe shelter does not necessarily mean they are poor or indigent.

• Remember this cause after holding your annual yard sale. Make the shelters aware of any unsold items you have remaining. If someone is willing to pick your left over sale goods up, this will save you a lot of time and trouble, as well.

• Consider donating your time. If you happen to have a collection of nail care products or cosmetics, offer to hold a casual ladies' group with the women on a weekday evening. If you enjoy reading to children, you may offer to hold a story hour some weekend afternoon.

• National Domestic Violence 24/7 Help Hotline: [phone]-SAFE (1/800-799-7233).

Resources

• The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence
• How to Plan Your Safe Escape from a Relationship Involving Domestic Violence