Springtime is the season when a home calls for a big cleanout. From dusting, vacuuming, and sweeping under the fridge, there’s a lot to consider when cleaning and decluttering!
Why not declutter with purpose and donate gently used items to BGC Big Brothers Big Sisters of Edmonton & Area’s (BGCBigs) donation program? Even one bag of donated goods can make a difference.
Ready to tackle that mess? Here are four easy steps to getting rid of all your excess items.
Step 1: Declutter with purpose
Step one of spring cleaning is identifying what you would like to give away. From items that you no longer need or could use a new lease on life, BGCBig’s donation program accepts so many different items.
Do you have an ice maker you no longer use because your fridge makes ice? A sweater you received as a Christmas present but never actually wore? Books taking up too much space on the shelf? Whatever it is, there’s a good chance somebody else in the community would greatly appreciate it. As you go through your stuff, consider how often you use or wear each item per year. If that answer is surprisingly low, it’s a safe bet to donate!
Make sure you go through all the rooms of your home as well; you never know what you’ll find in the back of the kitchen cupboard or a box in the basement. Clothing, shoes, accessories, books, toys, and small household goods are always welcome.
Step 2: Sorting time
Now that you’ve rounded up all your goods, it’s time to go over them and make sure they are in good condition.
If an item is broken or doesn’t work, don’t donate it! The same goes for extremely worn or damaged clothing. As long as your donations are gently used and still in working condition, they’ll always be a welcome donation to BGCBigs.
No matter how big or small your haul is, each donated bag helps create long-term mentoring relationships within our community.
Step 3: Packing on up
Now with all your donations in good order, it’s time to pack them up! Fold clothes or textiles into smaller parcels, which are easier to pack and load, while books or heavier items can go into boxes. Reusable bags are also an easy way to transport small-sized donations, too!
There’s no need to tape up any boxes either, just make sure they can be easily transported and handled!
Step 4: A new home
The last step in your spring cleaning process is donating all your goods. You can either drop them off yourself at the many donation bins or Value Villages located in the community or you can schedule a pickup. This is a free, home pick-up service — all you have to do is select what time works best, and voila! You’ve donated.
With a tidy house and the practical benefit of donating, cleaning your home has never been more impactful!
Strengthening community
All funds raised from donations support BGCBigs’ future mentoring and club programs, which provide vital wraparound programs to more than 4,000 children, youth, and families in Edmonton and surrounding areas.
By clearing out with a purpose, you’re not only making a lasting impression in you’re neighbourhood, you’re supporting a sustainable and circular economy too!
Time to get that clean on. Visit BGCBigs online about donations and programs and get to tidying!
