We love getting calls to schedule a furniture and houseware pickup or dropoff but we can be a little picky about the items we accept. It’s always a good idea to give us a ring on 416-934-1229 Ext. #2 to discuss the item/s in question, but here are 3 things we consider when accepting a donation.
# 1 – Is it in good condition?
All donated furniture and houseware items MUST be in a good, useable condition. The furniture we receive or pick up will find its way into the home of one of our clients, as early as the very next day. That’s why for example we DO NOT accept beds, mattresses and sofa sets with staining or tears.
We treat our clients with dignity and respect, and part of that is about being able to offer items that can be used as intended (and loved) by our furniture recipients.
As long as your furniture or houseware has been gently used, we’d love to have it.
# 2 – Is it a free-standing item and no larger than 6 feet?
Our clients are families and individuals transitioning out of homelessness, and in the large majority of cases, they are moving into smaller, 1 bedroom / bachelor apartments. We want to make it as easy as possible for them to move in, set up and get back on their feet, which is why we generally DO NOT accept items whose dimensions are 6 feet or larger.
In a similar way, all items need to be free-standing to ensure that their delivery and set up in the client’s apartment is as quick and easy as possible.
# 3 – Is it an item we just do not accept?
Our mission is to provide our clients with the essential items of furniture needed to create a home – items like chairs, tables, sofas, beds, cupboards, dressers and some electronics. Clients also have an allotted limit (based on a needs assessment) on the number of items they receive. For these reasons we DO NOT accept items like exercise equipment, BBQs, musical instruments or sewing machines.
We also DO NOT accept major appliances like stoves, fridges, washers & dryers because much of the housing options that our clients are offered already have this equipment installed.
For a full list of items we do and do not accept, click here. Of course, if in any doubt, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at 416-934-1229 Ext. #2 so we can discuss your items and direct you to other organizations who may be able to take your donation.
