Five everyday items to donate instead of recycle

Wouldn't you like to go "green" and help provide deserving individuals with everyday items that can help improve their lives? Many charities collect and refurbish used items some find necessary for everyday activities, like eye glasses and hearing aids, as well as monetary donations.

So next time, think before throwing away an old personal item like the few listed below and investigate charities that can use them. No matter what you choose to donate, remember to check out your chosen charity through the Better Business Bureau to help ensure your donation goes where you intend. You can even get a receipt for tax-deduction purposes afterward.

1. Eye glasses: Many people worldwide with poor vision struggle to read or work because they can't afford eye care. Organizations like OneSight collect used prescription reading glasses and sunglasses, then distribute them to disadvantaged people throughout the U.S. and the world to correct common problems like near- and far-sightedness.

2. Hearing aids: Although hearing loss is often incorrectly stereotyped as a problem for older generations, people of all ages experience hearing impairment. Not all of them can afford the equipment they need, which can lead to delays in development and social stigmatization. The Lions Club collects and recycles hearing aids and gives them to needy children and adults worldwide. Hear Now also helps children and adults in the U.S. by collecting donations to help equip them with needed hearing devices.

3. Cell phones: That old cell your new smart phone replaced can function outside your desk drawer. A cell phone can help needy individuals stay connected to distant family members or emergency services. Cell Phones for Soldiers collects used cell phones, removes personal data, and distributes them to U.S. troops overseas who use the refurbished, pre-paid phones to call home to their families. Cell Phone Bank also collects old cell phones and works with law enforcement and victim services agencies to provide emergency cell phones to individuals whom cannot afford them.

4. Laptops: Trashed electronics can cause significant environmental damage because of their hazardous materials, so donating them can turn a significant negative environmental impact into a positive one. Computers with Causes accepts donations of computer equipment that's Internet-capable and in working condition, removes all personal information and gives it to a variety of groups. Beneficiaries include non-profits, public agencies in the U.S. and economically disadvantaged individuals.

5. Business clothing: Training to enter the workforce is just part of the battle for many disadvantaged people. Dressing the part is an essential element of attaining and keeping employment. Organizations like Career Gear and Dress for Success work toward helping recipients create their own self-sufficiency by accepting donations of gently worn business wear. They then counsel disadvantaged men and women on job interview skills and dress them for scheduled interviews and later, employment.

Courtesy of ARAcontent