Now is the time to give 

Upon returning home to Hong Kong after having spent a wonderful Christmas in Australia, it felt like the right time to sort through home storage areas for newly acquired toys, games and clothing received as gifts from generous friends and family over the festive season. 

As I descended upon each room in our compact three-bedroom apartment it became disturbingly apparent that the shelves, wardrobes, cupboards, boxes and baskets, were already near to bursting, or full, and in need of some serious de-clutter. How had we accumulated so much stuff? I felt ashamed. Embarrassed. We had way too many things: things that we rarely use, wear, or play with anymore. There was no space left and I knew exactly what I needed to do. 

Thankfully, there are plenty of worthy organisations and charities that will open their arms and doors to generous giving from families and individuals, and may be even offers of help.

Clothing

When your baby is a baby no more.

As difficult as it can be to pack up those cute onesie’s that little Charlie looked so adorable in, there are plenty of recycling clothing bins all over Hong Kong waiting to be filled. 

I recently took a boot load of clothing down to the used clothing recycling bank located in Kennedy Town. The used clothing recycling bank sites are listed in the attached link. The scheme works in partnership with non-governmental organisations (Friends of the Earth HK) and the Government and District Councils.

Location of community used closed recycling bank

- Locations of "Community Used Clothes Recycling Bank Click here

- Community Used Clothes Recycling Bank Scheme Click here

Donate clothing and goods

When you have more than just clothing to give such as kettles, cutlery, bowls, plates or fridges, the Salvation Army will do what they do best and come to your rescue! 

The organisation is a well-known Christian Church and charity dedicated to supporting people in need. They will accept donations from footwear to handbags, to toys and books and unwanted gifts. 

Please check their website to ensure you are only donating items that are accepted. For larger, heavier items ‘The Salvo’s’ also offer a convenient pick up service.

Used Toys (and other items)

The crossroads foundation is a non-profit organisation that works with charities and on projects both locally and internationally. Based in the New Territories, your kind donations of high quality goods will be welcomed and donated for you to the most appropriate charities and individuals in need. 

There is no collection service therefore donations are restricted to personally donating your items to the Crossroads Foundation headquarters or arranging a delivery service. Please read the delivery of goods information listed on the website. Your donated items and where they end up is assessed carefully to ensure they are well received and used. 

Of course, there are many other charities and organisations not listed in this article.

Good luck with the cull. The end result will be worth it in many ways.