The battle against household clutter escalates at this time of year, when bulky coats are pulled out of storage, gifts arrive in the mail and colder weather keeps us indoors more often. It's a wonderful season, until the board games stacked in the hall closet fall sideways and the Monopoly pieces land in the pile of snow boots. Then it's time to look seriously at what's no longer needed and donate what's still good.
What follows is a list of local non-profit thrift stores, their contact information, and a note about where the proceeds from each go. Many of these organizations have felt the recession's pinch this year, and thrift store funds are put to use almost immediately. In most cases, the proceeds stay local, and it's a good bet that most of the shoppers at these stores are our New Jersey neighbors, as well.
As a final incentive, consider that donations made by the end of the calendar year may be deducted against federal income tax, depending on individual tax situations. To do so, keep records of what you donate and ask for a receipt. Especially as the holidays approach, it's best to call or check Web sites to confirm store hours and to let them know if you have a larger delivery.
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Some stores hesitate to accept toys due to new regulations; if in doubt, call ahead and ask. If you have a favorite store to add to the list, please let Patch know.
Goodwill Industries
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126 US Route 22, Springfield
973-912-0156; goodwill.org
Proceeds support job training and placement programs for people with disabilities and other disadvantages.
SAGE Eldercare Resale Shop
31B Chatham Road, Summit
908-273-5564
Proceeds support SAGE's programs and services for seniors.
Junior League Thrift Shop
37 DeForest Ave., Summit
908-273-7344
Proceeds support League activities in the community.
Bargain Box
102 Mount Kemble Ave., Morristown
973-267-1334
Proceeds support Morristown Memorial Hospital.
Nearly New Shop
7 King Place, Morristown
973-539-4274; www.jlmnj.org
Proceeds support Junior League activities in the community.
Holy Trinity Church
315 Main St., West Orange
973-325-0369; www.holytrinitychurchwo.org
Proceeds support church activities and outreach, including a daily soup kitchen.
Westfield Service League's Thrift Shop and Consignment Store
114 Elmer St., Westfield
908-232-1223
This organization "assists charitable, volunteer, civic and service organizations of Westfield and its environs."
Community Food Bank of NJ Thrift Shop
31 Evans Terminal, Hillside
908-355-FOOD (3663)
Proceeds support the food bank.
St. Barnabas Hospice Thrift Shop
52 North Fullerton Ave., Montclair
973-509-2060
Benefits St. Barnabas Hospice.
Market Street Mission Thrift Store
25 George St., Morristown
973-538-0427; www.marketstreet.org
Proceeds support the mission, which serves homeless individuals.
St. Luke's Church Second Time Shop
73 S. Fullerton Ave., Montclair
973-744-2517
Proceeds support church activities and outreach.
Salvation Army Family Thrift Stores
1059 Springfield Ave., Irvington
973-372-2533
74 Pennington Street, Newark
973-589-8904
526 Broadway, Newark
973-482-9282
The Salvation Army's Adult Rehabilitation Centers are funded from the proceeds of the Family Stores.
