How to Donate to Vietnam Veterans

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. is visited by nearly 3 million people annually.

Vietnam Veterans of America is the only service organization chartered by Congress for veterans of that war. Since 1979, VVA has committed 50 percent of its donations to improving the welfare and medical care of all veterans, especially those who are disabled and homeless. Other programs supported by the VVA include those aimed at improving post-traumatic and stress disorders, and issues affecting minority and women veterans. Donated clothing and household items are tax deductible and help you to clear the clutter, while giving back to those that fought for our freedom.

Instructions

1. Decide that you have items to donate to the Vietnam Veterans. Call 800-775-VETS or go to their "Schedule a Pickup" website http://www.vva.org. Consult the map under the link to Household Goods Donation Program to determine if your state has pickup service.

2. Upon completing the information required on the website, you will receive an e-mail with a date the VVA will be in your area. Select a pickup date either by e-mail or calling the VVA.

3. Gather all donation items and place them neatly in bags or boxes. A list of acceptable items are listed on the VVA website. When packing fragile items like glassware, mark the container "fragile" and add a list of items included.

4. Label each container with "VVA" in large visible letters.

5. Place the items in the designated area for pickup. Inform VVA of an alternative pickup area like a covered porch in case of precipitation.

6. Confirm pickup the evening before when they call or e-mail you with a reminder. Have a contact number to call in case you need to cancel pickup.

7. Fill in the VVA tax receipt they leave for you with the items and fair market value. File it away to be used for your tax return.

Tips & Warnings

• Place your e-mail on their notification list so you can regularly donate.

• They will accept furniture and household items that one person can carry. Ask ahead of time about items that may be too large or heavy for pickup.

References

• Vietnam Veterans Association
• Charity Wire: Vietnam Veterans of America

Resources

• Schedule a Pickup: Vietnam Veterans of Americans Pickup