How to Donate to Goodwill: A Simple Guide to Giving Back
-2.png?sfvrsn=d79aee4_1)
What to donate, where to go and how your items make an impact.
Why Donate to Goodwill?
Donating to Goodwill does more than clear space in your home—it helps support programs that connect people to work and prepare them for life.
Every item you donate contributes to:
- Job training and career services
- Community programs and support
- A more sustainable way to shop and reuse
It’s a simple act that creates real, local impact.
What Can You Donate to Goodwill?
Goodwill accepts a wide range of gently used items. If it’s clean and ready for a second life, there’s a good chance it can be donated.
Commonly accepted items include:
- Clothing and shoes
- Accessories (bags, belts, jewelry)
- Home décor and housewares
- Small appliances
- Books, toys, and games
- Working and non-working electronic items
Tip: If you’d give it to a friend, it’s probably donation-ready.
Items Not Typically Accepted
While Goodwill accepts a lot, there are a few things that usually can’t be donated due to safety or condition.
These may include:
- Broken or heavily damaged items
- Items that are not clean
- Large furniture or recalled items
You can always check our donation guidelines to get a better idea of what is accepted at Goodwill Store & Donation Centers.
How to Donate to Goodwill (Step-by-Step)
Donating is quick and easy—no appointment needed.
- Gather Your Items
Go through your closet, home, or storage and set aside items you no longer need.
- Check Condition
Make sure everything is clean and in usable condition.
- Find a Donation Location or Arrange a Pick Up
Use the Goodwill locator to find a store and donation center near you or schedule a pickup.
- Drop Off Your Donation
Bring your items to a Goodwill Donation Center. A team member will assist you.
- Get Your Receipt
Be sure to ask for a donation receipt for your records.
When Can You Donate?
Most Goodwill Donation Centers accept donations during regular business hours. Some locations may have extended or weekend hours for convenience.
It’s always a good idea to check your local store hours before heading out.
Where Do Your Donations Go?
Your donations begin their next chapter in Goodwill stores, where they’re prepared and placed on the sales floor.
From there:
- Items are purchased and given a new life
- Some items move to outlets for another chance to be discovered
- Revenue from sales helps support job training and community programs
While not every item can be resold, every donation helps create opportunities—and that impact goes far beyond the item itself.
Make an Impact—One Bag at a Time
You don’t need a huge cleanout to make a difference.
A single bag of clothing.
A few home items.
A pair of shoes you no longer wear.
It all adds up—and it all matters.
When you donate to Goodwill, you’re not just letting go of things.
You’re helping create opportunities for someone else.