VINNIES ENCOURAGE MINDFUL DONATIONS DURING DECLUTTERING SEASON

Christmas may be over, but the gifts keep coming for Vinnies Queensland; as Queenslanders use the holiday period to declutter and donate their second-hand clothing, homewares and goods.

But while the donations are appreciated, with many Vinnies volunteers still on leave, we are encouraging our communities to practice mindful donations.

Toowoomba Retail Operations Manager Adam Bruggemann said the region was one of many throughout the state that had come back from the Christmas break to find a huge influx of donations – most of it dumped outside the shops.

“We are overwhelmed with donations right now and we are truly thankful to the community for keeping Vinnies in mind during their post-Christmas clean out,” he said.

“But if donations aren’t provided correctly, it can cause even more work for our Volunteers and can get in the way of us raising funds for our vital community work.”

Mr Bruggemann said there were two key things to keep in mind when donating – checking the quality and donating in-store.

“While we appreciate the thought, we cannot accept anything damaged, broken, torn, stained or threadbare,” she said.

“If you wouldn’t give it to a friend, don’t give it to Vinnies.

“The second rule is to not leave donations outside our Shops – this leaves it open to the weather or thieves and often leaves a big mess for our Volunteers to clean up.

“The best way to donate your quality goods is to donate directly in the Shop during opening hours.”