Everyone goes through different phases of style as we evolve and get more in touch with our personal preferences. While we loved the trend at the time, we all have a past style choice that we might describe now as, well, trash. Do I need to remind you of the time you thought it was a good idea to get bangs? Yeah, I try to block out that phase too.
Much like poor hair choices, we all have purchases that we grow out of down the road. That technicolour rug you bought for your first college dorm might suddenly feel very out of place against your newfound love of minimalism. Maybe it’s time to finally let go of that exercise machine you bought on a whim that has since stayed in that same exact spot (I’m not judging, but seriously, is it a Bowflex or a footrest at this point?).
When it comes to decluttering, we can all take note from Tidying Up’s Marie Kondo: “Keep only those things that speak to your heart. Then take the plunge and discard all the rest.”
It’s so easy to hoard stuff just for memory’s sake; it’s time to let someone else take ownership and make their own memories. If something no longer brings you joy or has lived out its purpose, clear it out!
With that being said, clearing out shouldn’t be translated as throwing out. Just because you have no desire for that item anymore doesn’t mean its life has to be over.
If you have anything that you’ve grown out of, donate it to the ReStore so it can be loved by someone else! Turn your trash to treasure by giving it a second life!
So, maybe you thought you’d try your hand at music:
Look at these awesome instruments! You may have discovered that you’re actually tone deaf but someone learning to play would love an affordable set up like these!
Those animal plates you once pined over kinda give you the creeps now…
Someone else might love them! If they no longer bring you joy – donate them!
Your artisanal coffee venture didn’t quite work out:
We’ve all had an idea that doesn’t quite land – but that’s okay! Don’t let your supplies go to waste, someone else might really enjoy using them or are just starting a new business of their own!
You’ve updated your kitchen:
Give new homeowners affordable options by donating your used kitchen appliances and cabinets! Habitat HM even has a Free Kitchen Removal program! Other contractors will charge you tons of unnecessary fees – save your wallet and your conscience by donating them to Habitat for Humanity.
If you’re not sure if our ReStores will take your “junk” check out our list of items we accept.
Where to find Habitat HM’s ReStores:
Mississauga
4500 Dixie Road, L4W 1V7
Open – Mon – Sat 9 am – 6 pm
Donation Drop Off – 9 am – 5 pm
(905) 828-0987
Milton
700 Main Street East, L9T 3P6
Open – Mon – Sat 9 am – 6 pm
Donation Drop Off – 9 am – 5 pm
(905) 693-0444
Burlington
1800 Appleby Line, L7L 6A1
Open – Mon – Sat 9 am – 6 pm
Donation Drop Off – 9 am – 5 pm
(905) 637-4446
When you donate items to our ReStores, you’re helping Habitat for Humanity Halton-Mississauga realize its mission to build decent affordable homes in the communities we serve. You’re also helping the environment by enabling the ReStore to recycle perfectly re-usable household items and provide them with a second home, reducing your environmental footprint!
Unfortunately, some items just can’t be accepted by Habitat HM. To keep these out of the landfill, check out these other options:
Value Village actually accepts damaged items, including broken appliances and holey socks. These unsalable products are then sent away to be recycled.
The title says it all – if you have used or broken electronics, keep them out of the landfill by recycling them properly.
Got junk? The Government of Canada has an entire inventory of international recycling programs. Check out their list to find a program that fits your needs – you can recycle almost anything, from old automotive parts to hazardous waste.
About Habitat for Humanity Halton-Mississauga
Habitat for Humanity Halton-Mississauga is a proud member of our national organization Habitat Canada and is one of 54 local Habitat affiliates across our country. Habitat for Humanity brings communities together to help families build strength, stability, and independence through affordable home ownership. We provide a solid foundation for better, healthier lives in Canada and around the world. You can find out more about Habitat Canada at habitat.ca.