In the bustling heart of Toronto, amidst its soaring skyscrapers and bustling streets, lies a golden opportunity to breathe new life into your used furniture. Instead of relegating that cherished sofa or once-loved dining set to the landfill, why not give it a second chapter in someone else’s story? Donating your gently-used furniture not only paves the way for sustainability but also supports those in need, right in our local community. Dive into this guide to discover the top places in Toronto where your furniture can find a new home, continuing its tale of comfort and utility. You’re not just decluttering; you’re making a difference. Read on and be a part of this beautiful cycle of giving.
Here are the 12 best places to donate old furniture in Toronto:
- Furniture Bank
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore
- The Salvation Army Thrift Store
- Oasis Addiction Recovery Society
- Value Village
- Goodwill
- Red Door Family Shelter
- St. Vincent de Paul
- Jessie’s – The June Callwood Centre for Young Women
- Sketch Working Arts
- The Yonge Street Mission
- Encore Thrift Store
Furniture Bank
Established as a social enterprise, Furniture Bank has earned its reputation as one of Toronto’s most impactful non-profit organizations. Its primary aim is to redistribute gently-used furniture to families transitioning out of homelessness or displacement, helping to turn empty spaces into real homes. They’re Known For Making a social and environmental difference by redirecting furniture away from landfills and into homes where they’re dearly needed. Donations can be dropped off at their central location, or you can arrange for a pickup service for a fee. Apart from furniture donations, they run training programs, offering employment opportunities to the community.
Accepted Items: Sofas, chairs, tables, bed frames, dressers, and various household items. Always best to check their current needs on their website or over the phone.
Address: 25 Connell Ct #1, Etobicoke, ON M8Z 1E8, Canada
Habitat for Humanity ReStore
The Habitat for Humanity ReStore is not just a store, but a cornerstone of the Habitat for Humanity’s mission. These retail outlets sell new and gently-used donated goods, with profits directly supporting the organization’s homebuilding projects. They’re Known For Offering a range of home improvement goods, from furniture to appliances, all while championing sustainability and community development. You can drop off your items at any ReStore location, or in some cases, schedule a pickup. Apart from furniture, they’re also known for building materials, home accessories, and appliances.
Accepted Items: Cabinets, sofas, chairs, tables, lighting fixtures, appliances, and more. It’s recommended to check with your local store about current needs.
Address: 155 Bermondsey Rd, North York, ON M4A 1X9, Canada
The Salvation Army Thrift Store
The Salvation Army Thrift Store stands as a beacon of hope for many. It’s a crucial part of the Salvation Army’s vast array of charitable endeavors, using proceeds from sales to fund their various programs. They’re Known For Providing affordable items for families, while also supporting community development and relief programs. Donations can be made directly at store locations, or you can use their furniture pickup service, which might be available in certain areas. Beyond furniture, they also have a vast collection of clothing, household items, toys, and more.
Accepted Items: Dining sets, couches, chairs, bedroom furniture, and many other household items. However, it’s always a good idea to contact the store beforehand to confirm what they currently accept.
Address: 1219 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6H 1N6, Canada
Oasis Addiction Recovery Society
The Oasis Addiction Recovery Society is more than just a charity; it’s a beacon of hope for those navigating the treacherous waters of addiction. Their mission revolves around helping individuals overcome drug and alcohol dependencies. They’re Known For Offering comprehensive support to individuals recovering from substance addiction, ensuring they reintegrate successfully into society. Donors can drop off items directly or inquire about potential pickup services, though availability might vary. While furniture donations play a part, the core of Oasis is its support programs and services for those in recovery.
Accepted Items: Beds, dressers, and other essential furniture items that can assist those rebuilding their lives. Always check in advance as needs can shift over time.
Address: 921 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J 1L8, Canada
Value Village
Value Village is a retail thrift powerhouse, known and loved by many for its vast array of second-hand items available at affordable prices. They’re Known For Selling a wide range of donated items, from clothing to furniture, and giving back to local nonprofits from the proceeds. Direct drop-off at their store locations is the most common method of donation. A vast collection spanning from clothing, books, toys, to furniture, ensuring that each item gets a second life.
Accepted Items: Chairs, tables, bookshelves, and more. Given their expansive network, it’s always recommended to check with your nearest location about current needs.
Address: 1319 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6H 1P3, Canada
Goodwill
Goodwill is a name synonymous with charitable giving and community development. More than a thrift store, it provides employment and training opportunities for people facing employment challenges. They’re Known For Their dual mission of selling donated items while also serving as a platform for job training and community programs. Direct drop-offs at designated donation centers or stores are the primary method. Some locations might also offer scheduled pickups for larger donations. Beyond retail, Goodwill is renowned for its employment programs, helping individuals gain skills and find work.
Accepted Items: From sofas and chairs to tables and dressers, they accept a variety of furniture. However, given the diversity of their locations, it’s best to confirm with your local store.
Address: 2837 Dufferin St, Toronto, ON M6B 3S4, Canada
Red Door Family Shelter
The Red Door Family Shelter is a sanctuary for families in need, offering shelter and resources to those escaping domestic violence or facing homelessness. They’re Known For Their deep-rooted commitment to assisting families in crisis and helping them rebuild their lives. While monetary donations are often encouraged due to space constraints, furniture donations can sometimes be accepted depending on their current requirements. It’s advisable to contact them directly to discuss potential furniture donations. Providing shelter and support services, including counseling, housing assistance, and more.
Accepted Items: Essential furniture pieces for families, such as beds, cribs, and dressers, though specific needs can vary.
St. Vincent de Paul
Serving as a Catholic voluntary organization, St. Vincent de Paul has dedicated itself to assisting those in need through its thrift stores and community outreach. They’re Known For Their thrift stores, which sell donated goods to fund various community support initiatives, and their dedication to helping the less fortunate. Most St. Vincent de Paul locations accept drop-offs, but it’s essential to call ahead or check online to see if your local store is currently accepting furniture donations. Beyond furniture, they also offer clothing, household goods, and sometimes even books and toys. Once you’ve donated to a good cause at furniture donation stores, it might be time to rejuvenate your home. For those seeking a new sofa, be sure to check out our list of the best sofa stores in Toronto, offering a range of styles and designs to suit any room.
Accepted Items: Chairs, tables, bed frames, sofas, and other essential household furniture. However, given that their needs can vary, it’s best to contact them directly before donating.
Address: 240 Church St, Toronto, ON M5B 1Z2, Canada
Jessie’s – The June Callwood Centre for Young Women
Jessie’s Centre is a haven for pregnant teens and young mothers, offering a range of services to support them in their journey. Named after the legendary Canadian journalist and activist June Callwood, the center is a testament to community love and support. They’re Known For Their unwavering dedication to supporting young mothers, ensuring they have access to health services, education, and parenting support. Reach out directly to the center to understand their current needs and the logistics of furniture donation. Comprehensive programs, from prenatal classes to high school programs for young moms.
Accepted Items: Given the target demographic, items such as cribs, changing tables, and other baby-friendly furniture are often in demand. However, specific needs can vary.
Address: 205 Parliament St, Toronto, ON M5A 2Z4, Canada
Sketch Working Arts
Sketch Working Arts is an innovative platform that seeks to empower homeless and at-risk youth through the arts. They offer programs in visual arts, music, movement, and more. They’re Known For Their commitment to using arts as a medium to bring positive change in the lives of Toronto’s marginalized youth. It’s essential to get in touch with Sketch directly to see if they have any ongoing furniture needs for their various programs. Their arts-based approach to community development, offering programs in various art forms.
Accepted Items: Given their arts focus, items like easels, storage cabinets, or seating for art spaces might be required. Always best to check in advance.
Address: 180 Shaw St, Toronto, ON M6J 2W5, Canada
The Yonge Street Mission
With over a century of service, The Yonge Street Mission has been a cornerstone in Toronto’s community efforts, addressing the needs of people living in poverty. They’re Known For Their diverse programs, from health and wellness services to employment training, aiming to create a thriving community. The Mission has several locations, so it’s recommended to contact them to find out where and how to best donate furniture. A vast range of services, including adult programs, youth programs, community development, and more.
Accepted Items: Essential furniture pieces that can benefit their various community centers and outreach programs. Given their broad outreach, specific needs can change, so it’s good to confirm.
Address: 306 Gerrard St. E, Toronto, ON, Ontario
Encore Thrift Store
Encore Thrift Store, operated by the Salvation Army, serves as a retail outlet offering various second-hand items, from clothing to furniture, to the community at affordable prices. They’re Known For Their commitment to sustainability, community service, and the broader mission of the Salvation Army. Donations can usually be dropped off directly at the store, but it’s recommended to call ahead to ensure they’re accepting furniture at the time. An extensive range of second-hand items which helps fund the Salvation Army’s charitable missions.
Accepted Items: They typically accept chairs, tables, sofas, and other household furniture. It’s advisable to confirm with the store before making a donation.
Address: 9446 McLaughlin Rd N #2, Brampton, ON L6X 4H9, Canada
Tips for Donating Furniture
When it comes to decluttering our living spaces, donating furniture is a generous and environmentally-friendly option. But to ensure the process is smooth for both the donor and the receiving organization, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind:
Cleanliness Matters: Before donating any furniture piece, ensure it’s clean. Dust off surfaces, vacuum upholstered items, and give everything a good wipe down. Your gently used furniture should be something the recipient can use immediately without additional cleaning.
Good Repair: While wear and tear are normal, especially on used items, furniture that’s broken, has structural issues, or is significantly damaged might not be accepted by many organizations. Before donating, ensure that drawers slide smoothly, upholstery isn’t torn, and there are no significant dents or scratches. The goal is to provide furniture that’s functional and safe for the next user.
Understand Organization Needs: Every organization has its specific requirements and restrictions. While one might be in desperate need of sofas, another might be looking for dining sets. Before heading out with your donation, call ahead or check the organization’s website to ensure they currently need the furniture you’re offering.
Donation Receipts: Donating furniture is not only a kind gesture but can also be beneficial come tax season. Many charitable organizations provide donation receipts that you can use for tax deductions. Remember to ask for one when you drop off your items.
Stay Informed: Organizations’ needs can change based on the season, current donations, and other factors. It’s always a good idea to stay updated on their requirements. An item they didn’t need in January might be on their wishlist by June.
While we’ve highlighted some of Toronto’s best furniture stores, if you’re looking for even more options to decorate your space, our comprehensive guide to the top furniture stores in Toronto offers a wider selection of styles and designs to suit every taste.
Key Takeaways
- The city boasts a variety of reputable organizations like Furniture Bank, Habitat for Humanity ReStore, and The Salvation Army Thrift Store, among others, that accept furniture donations to support their charitable missions.
- Donating to places like Oasis Addiction Recovery Society, Jessie’s – The June Callwood Centre for Young Women, and The Kidney Foundation directly contributes to aiding individuals recovering from addiction, young mothers, and those with kidney diseases, respectively.
- Before donating, ensure the furniture is clean, in good repair, and aligns with the specific needs of the chosen organization.
- Most organizations provide donation receipts, allowing donors to claim tax deductions.
- Regularly checking with organizations regarding their current needs ensures that donations have the most significant impact possible.
- It’s beneficial to understand the mission of the organization you’re donating to, ensuring your contributions align with causes you support.
- Donating furniture diverts it from landfills and supports community members in need, emphasizing sustainability and generosity.
FAQs
- Can I get a tax receipt for my furniture donation?
Yes, many charitable organizations provide donation receipts for tax deductions.
- Do any organizations offer furniture pickup services?
Yes, places like Furniture Bank and Habitat for Humanity ReStore often offer pickup services.
- Are there any organizations that support specific causes with furniture donations?
Yes, for example, Oasis Addiction Recovery Society aids individuals recovering from addiction.
- Does donating furniture help the environment?
Yes, it diverts items from landfills, promoting sustainability.
- Are there any organizations that use donated furniture for art purposes?
Sketch Working Arts uses arts as a medium to support youth, and they might have furniture needs for their spaces.
- Do all organizations resell the donated furniture?
Not all. Some, like Furniture Bank, redistribute the furniture to families in need.
- Can I donate to stores like Value Village?
Yes, Value Village accepts a range of donated items, including furniture.