Fall Cleaning with a Conscience: Find a Home for Your Gently Used Items

This bit of extended warm weather has helped put many of us in the mood for fall cleaning. And since we tend to accumulate possessions over the holidays, fall is a great time to clear out some of the items we don’t want and make room for something new.

But what should you do with all the stuff you don’t want?

At Monarch, we are committed to being responsible stewards of the environment and encourage our clients and fellow members of the community to think twice before simply tossing personal or household items away. After all, your trash may indeed be someone else’s treasure.

Smaller items like books, clothing and textiles can easily be dropped off at your local Salvation Army, Goodwill or Value Village. If you have outdated electronics piling up in your home, visit recycleyourelectronics.ca to locate the dropoff location nearest you. In Pickering, you can drop off your used electronics for free at U-Pak.

For larger items, consider one the following options:

Habitat for Humanity ReStores

If you’ve never visited your local ReStore, prepare to be amazed! ReStores are retail facilities that sell new and gently used building supplies and household decorating items. Donations generate revenue that covers 100% of their administrative costs. That means 100% of the donations they receive go directly into their Build Fund -- providing safe, decent and affordable homes for low-income families in your community.

Furniture Bank

Furniture Bank offers full-service furniture removal across the GTA. They pick up gently used furniture and housewares from your home and transfer them to individuals who have recently transitioned out of homelessness and displacement. Your donations help turn an empty space into a true home. Click here for a list of items they accept.

Habitat for Humanity Recognizes Monarch’s Commitment to the Environment and Community

Many thanks to Habitat for Humanity Durham for recognizing Monarch in their Spring 2015 e-newsletter for its ongoing commitment to waste reduction during the home renovation process.

 

Monarch believes companies must conduct sustainable business practices and be responsible stewards of the environment while seeking profit only in a manner that leaves the earth healthy and safe. A proud supporter of Habitat for Humanity for 15 years, Monarch encourages homeowners to think twice before taking old cabinetry, appliances or fixtures to the dump.

“If you are contemplating a renovation and are updating items in your home that are still perfectly functional...think about donating them to Habitat for Humanity," says designer Amanda Willson-Suppa.

A non-profit, charitable organization dedicated to improving the lives of economically disadvantaged individuals through home ownership, Habitat for Humanity is committed to helping low-income families caught in the vicious cycle of poverty. 

If you're planning a kitchen or bathroom renovation, give Habitat for Humanity a call before tear down begins. Their volunteers will remove your old kitchen cabinets, appliances or bathroom fixtures at no-charge and issue you a tax-deductible receipt for the value of your donation.