A Directory of Where to Take Durable, Reusable Goods in Monmouth County
There are some items a recycling centers won't take, but don't give up! Listed below are some ideas on what to do with durable goods in usable condition. Buying, selling and donating used items reduces waste and promotes recycling!
Charity: There are many organizations that distribute used articles to the needy. Some of these offer pickup services; with others you may need to drop items at a collection point or resale facility. Useful phone book listings in the yellow pages are "thrift shops" and "social service organizations".
Community Organizations: Many organizations such as schools, churches, YMCA/YWCA, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, senior citizen centers, social service agencies, etc. have needs for such things as office equipment, books, audio-visual equipment nursery equipment and more. They would be glad to have items in good working condition. You can call these organizations to ask if they might need something you have, or watch the newspapers for want ads or other notices of items needed.
Garage Sales: Organize one of your own or join friends and neighbors for a group sale. Ask your local homeowners’ association if it sponsors an annual neighborhood wide sale.
Resale Shops: Check the phone book under "consignment shops" or "thrift shops" to locate those near you. Ask if they accept donations or consignment only.
Rummage Sales: Many organizations (churches, libraries, humane societies, etc.) sponsor these sales as fund-raisers. They need donations from their members and the public to have successful sales. Spring is probably the most popular time for these sales. Watch your local newspapers and community bulletin boards.
Magazines: Many places, such as local nursing home and day care centers, welcome your magazines. (Magazines can also be recycled - call your town for details.)
Book Sales: Some organizations collect books all year, while others hold annual collection drives. This category may also include magazines and records, but this varies from sale to sale, so be sure to ask. Many libraries sponsor used book sales, so check with them. Also watch your local papers and community bulletin boards. The American Association of University Women (AAUW) holds several book sales each year. In northern Monmouth County, books (in good condition) can be dropped at the Garibaldi Building, corner of Shrewsbury and Oakland Street, Red Bank, between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. every Thursday. In central Monmouth County call 462-0473 or 780-9037. These collections are for books only - no textbooks, though, and no magazines. Check with your local library about book recycling (including textbooks) through Renaissance Books 732-764-0444.