You are thinking of downsizing to a smaller dwelling but what can you do with all that old clothing, furniture and even major appliances filling up your attic and basement? Sure, you can probably find a resale store or charity to take them, but how will you get them there?
Here are some answers from three of Alexandrias social service agencies. Theyll help you clear out your clutter while helping your community, too.
ALIVE!
(Alexandrians Involved Ecumenically)
Their 700 volunteers represent 41 congregations, ranging literally from A to Z (namely Agudas Achim Congregation, Alexandria Church of the Nazarene and Alfred Street Baptist Church to Zion Baptist Church, with all other major denominations in between).
Their furniture program picks up donations from homes in the City of Alexandria and delivers them to neighbors in need, as identified by city agencies or member congregations. They ask for beds, tables, chairs, dressers, couches and other basic furnishings in usable condition.
Donors can call the Furniture Line at 703-837-9300. A volunteer will match their contribution with a clients request and contact them with a pickup time, often that same weekend.
The related Housewares Program cannot pick up donations, but it will accept tableware, kitchen utensils, linens and small appliances, such as toasters, microwaves and blenders. You may take these to the Fairlington United Methodist Church at 3900 King Street from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington
This organization claims to be the largest blindness prevention agency in the United States. Its services include screening more than 7,500 children annually for vision loss and strabismus and 5,000 adults for glaucoma. Additionally, it helps 8,000 low-income and homeless people at its eyeglass clinic and sponsors the Aging Eye and Macular Degeneration networks.
The programs rely on funds raised by the Look Again Resale Shops in Old Town Alexandria and Kensington, Md. They welcome furniture, China, cookware, books, antiques, clothing collectibles, art and jewelry. They cannot accept appliances, computers and toys.
Pick-up trucks travel as far as Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun and Prince William counties and should be scheduled one to two weeks in advance, at 202-234-1010.
The Look Again Resale Shop is located at 900 King Street in Old Town (703-683-2558).
Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center
Founded in 1865, the Salvation Army is probably the countrys best-known faith-based social-service agency. Its current projects include the Adult Rehabilitation Centers, including an Alexandria location. It provides residential housing, work experience and therapy for groups and individuals.
The Salvation Army Family Store raises funds for this program. The large, bright, airy resale site can accommodate donations of clothing, furniture and major appliances. Cars and trucks are also welcome, to be sold at auction. To arrange a donation call 1-800-SA-TRUCK.
The Salvation Army Family Store and Adult Rehabilitation Center are both located at 6528 Little River Turnpike.
