Happy Saint Pattie's Day!
We’re going GREEN by repurposing your stuff (since I don't have one ounce of Irish blood.
Here are some ideas for your unused or mildly-used goods.
* Rubberbands:
Postal workers use them all the time in their mail delivery. I put them around my outgoing mail before it goes in the mailbox. Of course, this means, you're sending out greeting cards to people you love!!
* Twist ties:
In preparation for a summer yard/estate sale, wrap the cords of all appliances. Make the cord as short as possible. This keeps the cord intact and not dragging along the floor when moving it around! Plus you don't have to worry about liability since the buyer won't trip and fall on your driveway.
* Greeting cards:
Tear off the front of the card and use as a cheerful postcard for someone. Read the message, acknowledge the love, then recycle the note.
* Notebooks/pads:
Tear out the pages you’ve already used. Take the useable pile to a local school for the students or teachers to utilize.
* Books:
Little Free Libraries. Take note of where these are in the area. I keep a few books in the car at all times. I drop them off in the box and leave immediately, do not read titles, do not read the back of books, do not open the front and read the jacket. OR bring to your local library, some have an area for retail. This helps the library raise money.
* Magazines:
Some libraries have a free box for used publications. After School Programs might be able to use them as well. People are doing Vision Boards and could use your magazines. Check the Community Ed Pamphlet and take them to the office if they offer this course. Also look up the MeetUps in your area, they might use them also.
* Pens/pencils:
Schools, the car repair shop, libraries, tax preparation (especially AARP offerings) dentist/medical offices, churches, and shelters could use them! See "Notebooks and Pads" above, kids/teachers always need a pen!
* Unstained/in-good-repair clothing:
Check your local jail, refugee support agencies, nursing homes, hospitals, shelters, rehab centers, and your church might have a Clothes Closet. If your congregation doesn't offer an area for gently-used items, maybe you can start one!
* Kitchen items:
Hospice centers, immigration agencies, homeless teen programs, churches, and thrift stores that support people in transition. Some even offer-up a tax receipt.
My goal: AVOID "giving" to dump sites!!
'Cause if you don't know, there IS no "away."
Thanks for repurposing. It feels GREAT, doesn’t it?
Please comment, leave one tip for re-use. I’d love to get your creative solutions!