Donated second-hand goods support aid work – if handed in correctly

Danish aid organisations are urging people to check opening hours or use clothing containers when donating unwanted items, as improperly left donations risk going to waste, reports DR.

Spring cleaning often leads to bags of clothes, furniture, and household items being left outside charity shops – but volunteers say this does more harm than good. Items left unattended can be damaged, stolen, or even create costs for the organisations if they become waste.

Camilla Præstiin Jensen, a volunteer at the Red Cross shop in Odense, emphasises that while donations are welcome, timing matters. “We appreciate everything we receive, but when people leave bags outside after hours, we can’t guarantee the items stay in good condition. We’d much prefer donations during opening hours – or in our clothing containers,” she says.

Peter Sjursen, recycling consultant at Folkekirkens Nødhjælp (Danish Church Aid), agrees. “The best-quality items come when donors bring them in person. It’s a win-win: we can thank them directly, and they see how their donations – like a leather jacket priced at 500–600 kroner – help fund aid work.”

For those unable to visit during opening hours, 24/7 clothing containers are an option – but Sjursen advises against donating heavily worn items. Some municipalities charge aid groups for textile waste disposal, meaning poorly sorted donations can drain resources meant for humanitarian projects.

“It’s frustrating when donations end up costing us money to dispose of as waste,” he adds.

With Easter cleaning in full swing, charities remind donors: a little extra effort ensures second-hand goods become aid, not waste.