You’ve given your blood and donated your money, now (especially if you’re moving October 1) you want to send all that other stuff you don’t need. Well, New York doesn’t want it and neither does Washington, but people in Chicago need it as much as they ever did. You can leave it in the alley for the Dumpster divers, but another method of distribution to the poor that’s almost as direct is through local charities. Some thrift shops, such as the Salvation Army and the Society of Saint Vincent DePaul (which recently closed its shop on Western near Lawrence), not only sell donated goods but also give them away, either through churches or to applicants. Besides these, however, there are many less-visible community-based not-for-profits that give stuff directly to people in need. Here is a short (but by no means comprehensive) list. Except where noted, donations are taken during business hours.
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Accepts (preferably winter) clothing, furniture, small appliances, books, and canned food and distributes to people in Uptown. “We service low-income families,” says executive director Joe Podlasek, “people who don’t have a lot of things that we take for granted.” Open for drop-offs 10-3 Monday-Thursday; calling ahead is appreciated.
Apna Ghar
1116 N. Kedzie, 773-772-7170
Children’s Clothing Pantry
Christopher House
773-375-8401
