Sacramento Giving Map: Where to Donate Household Items
If it’s usable, it doesn’t go to the dump.
Moving, downsizing or clearing a loved one’s home? Here is where furniture, linens, wheelchairs, tools and half-used paint can go to help someone. Every place shows what it takes, what it turns away, who it helps, and how to reach it.
81 placesChecked October 2026 · verify before you goFrom Maggie B. Hopkins and the team at Surroundings
We check this list often, but hours and needs change. Please verify before you go. A two-minute call saves a wasted trip.
Read the “Won’t take” list.
Most places refuse mattresses, stained or broken items, and old cribs and car seats.
Clean and working only.
Give what you would hand to a friend. Broken things go to repair or recycling.
Before you donate
Five things to check first
These are the mistakes that cost families money, privacy or a wasted trip. Tap each one.
Rented, Medicare-covered, or hospice medical equipment
Some medical equipment in the house may not belong to your parent. Medicare oxygen equipment stays the property of the supplier for the whole rental period, and items like hospital beds, wheelchairs, and CPAPs are rented month by month and only become the patient's after 13 straight months of rental. Hospice equipment belongs to the hospice or its equipment vendor, and the hospice arranges pickup after a death, usually within a few days.
Look for a sticker or tag on each machine with the supplier's name and phone number
Call the supplier and ask: is this rented, and do you need it back?
If hospice was involved, call the hospice; they schedule pickup of the bed, oxygen, and other equipment
Ask for a short delay if you need a few days; most companies will work around the funeral
Do not donate, sell, or throw away oxygen tanks or concentrators; they go back to the supplier
Only items the supplier confirms you own can be donated
The equipment supplier (DME company) named on the deviceCall to confirm ownership and schedule pickup
The hospice agency that cared for your parentCall; they coordinate pickup of hospice-provided equipment
Couches, chairs, and mattresses: labels and common refusals
California law requires upholstered furniture and bedding to carry a permanent law label before it can be offered for sale, and that includes used items, so leave the tags on. Sacramento charities refuse mattresses and box springs almost across the board, and they turn away upholstered pieces with stains, rips, pet hair, pet odor, or smoke smell. Everything is inspected at pickup or drop-off and can be refused on the spot even if it was approved by phone.
Do not cut the tags off sofas, chairs, or cushions
Vacuum and lint-roll pet hair before the inspection
If the house was smoked in, expect upholstered pieces to be refused; plan for a hauler
Check for bed bugs in seams of mattresses and couches; any sign means disposal, not donation
Mattresses and box springs go to a mattress recycler or bulky-item pickup, not a charity
Photograph pieces and email them when scheduling a pickup
Goodwill Sacramento Valley & Northern NevadaTakes gently used assembled furniture without large stains or tears at retail stores; does not take mattresses, box springs, or sofa bedsWebsite
St. Vincent de Paul SacramentoSchedule furniture by email or phone; no mattresses, box springs, sleeper sofas, headboards, items with smoke or pet odor or hair, entertainment centers, china hutches, L-shaped desks, computers; average pickup wait about 5 days(916) 972-1212Website
Habitat for Humanity Greater Sacramento ReStoreResidential donations Wed to Sat, 10 to 3; no stained, torn, odorous, water-damaged, or heavily worn items; no baby furnitureWebsite
Salvation ArmyFree furniture pickup where trucks run; schedule online or by phone; driver can refuse items with stains, tears, odors, or pet hair1-800-728-7825Website
Clear out personal information before anything leaves
Donated desks, books, and electronics often leave the house carrying a parent's identity with them. Phones and computers need to be backed up, signed out, and factory reset, with SIM and SD cards removed. Go through every drawer, pocket, book, and box by hand, because families regularly find cash, letters, photos, and account papers in furniture headed out the door.
Back up photos and files from phones and computers first
Sign out of Apple ID or Google account so the device is not locked to your parent
Remove SIM and SD cards; destroy the SIM if no longer needed
Factory reset phones and tablets; for computers, wipe the drive or remove it
Empty every desk drawer, filing cabinet, and nightstand before it goes
Check coat and pants pockets, purses, and the pages of books for cash, cards, and letters
Peel prescription labels off pill bottles or black them out with a permanent marker
Shred bank statements, tax papers, and medical records you do not need to keep
FTC guide: removing personal info from a phoneStep-by-step backup, SIM removal, unlinking accounts, and factory resetWebsite
FDA drug take-back optionsHow to dispose of leftover medicines safelyWebsite
Return things that are not your parent's
Cable boxes, modems, and remotes usually belong to the internet or TV company and must go back, or the account gets charged. Xfinity and AT&T both take returns at UPS locations, and AT&T gives about 21 days before charging a fee. Fidium mails a prepaid return label and allows 30 days. Library books, borrowed tools, and rented equipment should be returned before anything is donated.
Gather every cable box, modem, gateway, remote, and power cord
Call the provider to close the account and ask how to return equipment
Xfinity: drop off at any UPS Store or Xfinity store and keep the receipt
AT&T: The UPS Store packs and ships it free, or use the prepaid label; do not use a UPS drop box
Fidium: call 1-844-434-3486, wait for the prepaid label (5 to 7 days), and mail everything back within 30 days; offices do not take drop-offs
Return library books to any branch of the library they came from
Look for labels on tools, walkers, or equipment borrowed from neighbors, church, or a loan closet
Xfinity (Comcast) account holder passed awayClose the account and return all equipment to a UPS Store or Xfinity storeWebsite
AT&T equipment returnUPS Store packs and ships for free, or use prepaid UPS label; drop boxes not acceptedWebsite
Fidium Fiber equipment returnCall to cancel and they mail a prepaid label in 5 to 7 days. Return the gateway and any WiFi extenders within 30 days to avoid fees. Do not drop off at an office. Have a death certificate ready if the account holder has passed.1-844-434-3486Website
Sacramento Public LibraryReturn items to any branch; ask about the account of a patron who has died(916) 264-2920Website
Tax receipts for donated items
Get a receipt every time you donate, and write down what was in each load. The IRS only allows a deduction for clothing and household items in good used condition or better, valued at what they would actually sell for in a thrift store, not what they cost new. When it is an estate, who gets the deduction and how it is valued can be different, so give your list and receipts to the tax preparer and let them decide.
Get a receipt from the charity for every drop-off or pickup
Keep a simple list: date, charity, items, condition, and a fair thrift-store value
Take photos of better pieces before they go
Any single donation of $250 or more needs a written acknowledgment from the charity
Over $500 in total noncash donations for the year means filing Form 8283
Any item or group of similar items over $5,000 needs a qualified appraisal
Ask the tax preparer whether the estate or the heirs should claim the donations
IRS Publication 526 (Charitable Contributions)Rules for deductions and recordsWebsite
IRS Publication 561 (Determining the Value of Donated Property)How to value used items; thrift-store prices are the guideWebsite
Charity valuation guides (Goodwill, Salvation Army)Price ranges for common used items; useful as a starting point onlyWebsite
Know before you give
Where does my stuff actually go?
Every place on this map helps someone, but not in the same way. Each one is labeled so you know what happens to your things.
Gives it away free
Your things go straight to a person or family who needs them, at no cost to them. Think a family leaving a shelter, or a neighbor on Buy Nothing.
Resells for a cause
A thrift store sells your things, and the money pays for its programs. Your sofa becomes counseling hours, meals or rent help.
Both
The store sells most donations, and also gives items free to the people it serves. WEAVE, St. Vincent de Paul and the Assistance League work this way.
Watch for look-alikes
Not every bin or pickup with a charity’s name on it is a charity. Some are businesses that buy donations and pass on a small share. California requires every donation bin to say who runs it and whether it is for-profit, so read the label.
Pickup Please (Vietnam Veterans of America): Home pickups are run by for-profit thrift companies that buy the donated goods. A 2018 California filing showed about 13 to 15 percent going to the charity, and VVA is a veterans group, not a 501(c)(3).
Thrift stores that say they "support charities": Some local thrift stores are businesses that pay a charity a fee. If a store does not show a charity disclosure, ask who owns it and what share goes to the cause.
Parking-lot donation bins: Many are run by companies that sell the clothing. California requires each bin to show the operator and whether it is for-profit. If the label does not name a charity, it is probably a business.
Savers: A for-profit chain that pays a nonprofit partner for donations. There is no Savers in our four counties; the nearest is in Vacaville.
Check any charity yourself
Every nonprofit files a public tax return (Form 990) showing its revenue and top salaries. Where we found it, each card shows a “Follow the money” line from that return. To look up any charity, search its name on ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer or Charity Navigator. Big salaries are not always a red flag at large charities. What matters most is how much of the money reaches the people it serves.
Find a home for it
What are you giving away?
Search an item or tap a category. Pins show each drop-off spot. Tap one to see the details.
81 of 81 places
Gives freeResells for a causeBothRecycle or reuse
Pins are placed by ZIP code, not the exact building, so use the address or “Directions” for the exact spot. Online-only options are in the list.
Families starting over
Opening Doors, Inc.
Gives it away freeSome details unconfirmedNonprofitAppointment or call first
Helps: Refugees and trafficking survivors setting up their first apartment
What happens to your things: Gives donated items free to furnish apartments for refugees and trafficking survivors.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. Free to donate. Call, email or book before you go. Usually tax deductible. Ask for a receipt.
Follow the money: Highest reported salary about $181,000, CEO (2024) · Yearly revenue $12 million (2024).
TakesOnly items on their current needs list. Baby supplies (car seats new only), kitchen supplies (pots, pans, flatware, dishes, rice or slow cookers), NEW bedding (twin, full, queen sheets, pillows, blankets or comforters), household and cleaning products, toiletries. Some furniture may go to their storage units by arrangement.
Won't takeUsed bedding. Anything not on the posted needs list (storage is limited).
Area
Sacramento region
Drop off
1111 Howe Ave, Suite 125, Sacramento, CA 95825Scheduled drop-off days only; check their posted calendar
Gives it away freeConfirmedNonprofitAppointment or call first
Helps: Newly arrived refugee and immigrant families
What happens to your things: Gives household goods free to resettled refugee and immigrant families.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. Free to donate. Call, email or book before you go. Usually tax deductible. Ask for a receipt.
Follow the money: Highest reported salary $1.2 million, President & CEO (2023) (national organization) · Yearly revenue $1.3 billion (2023).
TakesNew or very gently used household goods: small kitchen appliances (slow cooker, rice cooker, kettle, coffee maker), pots, pans, baking dishes, kitchen knives and utensils, new beds-in-a-bag, pillows, throw blankets, alarm clocks. Most needed now: gift cards, laptops, bicycles, smartphones, home supplies.
Won't takeUsed mattresses, used bedding, used towels, clothes, washers and dryers. Anything not new or very gently used.
Area
Sacramento
Drop off
2020 Hurley Way, Suite 420, Sacramento, CA 95825By pre-arranged appointment, 9am to 5pm
Gives it away freeConfirmedNonprofitAppointment or call first
Helps: Local families in need
What happens to your things: Gives furniture and household goods free to local families in need.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. Free to donate. Call, email or book before you go. Usually tax deductible. Ask for a receipt.
Follow the money: Highest reported salary $76,644, Director (2024) · Yearly revenue $216,000 (2024).
TakesPriority: beds (all sizes), dressers, kitchen tables and chairs, washers and dryers, bath towel sets, refrigerators, microwaves, pots and pans, utensils. It also takes couches, loveseats, living room chairs, coffee and end tables, nightstands, bookshelves, cribs, high chairs, dishes, small appliances, blankets, clothing and coats.
Won't takeAnything not in good working condition, or with rips, tears, stains or heavy wear.
Area
Sacramento County (based in Elk Grove)
Pickup
A volunteer truck team picks up items too big for a car, normally Wednesdays 9am to 1pm. Call (916) 383-3999 to book.
Gives free and resellsConfirmedNonprofitFree pickup
Helps: People in need served by local parish conferences
What happens to your things: Thrift store sales fund its work, and parish groups give furniture and beds free to people in need.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. Free to donate. No appointment needed. Usually tax deductible. Ask for a receipt.
Follow the money: Highest reported salary $70,902, Executive Director (2024) · Yearly revenue $4.5 million (2024).
TakesFurniture, large appliances, clothing and other household goods.
Won't takeNo list published. Call before you load the car.
Area
Greater Sacramento
Drop off
2275 Watt Ave, Sacramento, CA 95825 (at Butano Dr)Donations 10am to 4pm; store 10am to 6pm
Pickup
Furniture pickup is free. Call (916) 972-1212 and send photos, your name, full address and phone. The truck runs Sun to Thu, and the average wait is about 5 days. Pickup is subject to the transportation team's approval.
Helps: Survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and trafficking
What happens to your things: The thrift store sells donations to fund its programs, and WEAVE clients get vouchers for free clothing and household items, plus free furniture when they set up a new home.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. Free to donate. No appointment needed. Usually tax deductible. Ask for a receipt.
Follow the money: Highest reported salary $217,598, CEO (2023) · Yearly revenue $11.3 million (2023) · Charity Navigator 4/4 stars.
TakesClean, gently used home goods and kitchen items, sheets, towels, clothing for all genders and ages, shoes, jewelry, handbags and accessories. Furniture is taken if they have space.
Won't takeFurniture when they are out of space, or without photo approval first.
Area
Sacramento (Arden Way)
Drop off
2409 Arden Way, Sacramento, CAMon, Wed, Fri 10:30am to 1:30pm
Pickup
Pickups are preferred for large donations, scheduled 4 days a week, currently about 1 to 2 weeks out. Call (916) 643-4606. Email furniture photos first.
Gives it away freeConfirmedNonprofitAppointment or call first
Helps: Homeless women and children in Sacramento
What happens to your things: Gives donated clothing and goods free to women and children in its programs.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. Free to donate. Call, email or book before you go. Usually tax deductible. Ask for a receipt.
Follow the money: Highest reported salary $187,225, Chief Development Officer (2024) · Yearly revenue $8.1 million (2024).
TakesNew and gently used clothing (casual clothing under 5 years old), duffle bags and suitcases. Other household goods only after email approval.
Won't takeClothing with rips, stains, excessive stretching, pilling or wear. Casual clothing over 5 years old. Furniture and other household items without email approval first.
Area
Sacramento
Drop off
Behind 4410 Power Inn Rd, Sacramento (map to 7950 Merced Ave)Most Fridays 10am to 1pm
Next Move Homeless Services (Francis House Center)
Gives it away freeConfirmedNonprofit
Helps: People experiencing homelessness
What happens to your things: Gives linens and kitchen goods free to people moving out of homelessness.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. Free to donate. No appointment needed. Usually tax deductible. Ask for a receipt.
Follow the money: Highest reported salary $135,979, Executive Director (2022) · Yearly revenue $15.9 million (2022).
TakesNew or gently used bed sheets and blankets (twin and full), pillows, pillowcases, washcloths, towels, small kitchen appliances (crock pots, coffee makers, microwaves, toasters), kitchenware. Wish list also includes hygiene kits, vacuums and digital cameras.
Won't takeFurniture (not on their wish list).
Area
Sacramento
Drop off
Francis House Center, 1422 C St, Sacramento, CA 95814Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 9am to 12pm and 1 to 3pm
Lutheran Social Services of Northern California (Welcome Home Drive)
Gives it away freeSome details unconfirmedNonprofitAppointment or call first
Helps: Chronically homeless Sacramento residents moving into permanent housing
What happens to your things: Gives move-in baskets free to newly housed Sacramento residents.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. Free to donate. Call, email or book before you go. Usually tax deductible. Ask for a receipt.
Follow the money: Highest reported salary $188,848, CEO (latest filing) · Yearly revenue $18.6 million (2024).
TakesMostly NEW move-in items via Amazon, Target and Walmart wish lists: dinnerware and flatware, glasses, pots and pans, utensils, baking pans, can opener, full or queen sheet sets, bath towels, bath mats, broom and dustpan, baskets, cleaning supplies. Furniture and basic household items case by case, if pre-approved.
Won't takeFurniture that is not pre-approved. They cannot accept every donation.
Area
Sacramento
Pickup
Arranged case by case; the agency has no delivery vehicle or pickup staff. Contact well in advance.
Helps: At-risk youth, including transgender and nonbinary youth
What happens to your things: Free clothing boutique for at-risk youth.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. Free to donate. No appointment needed. Usually tax deductible. Ask for a receipt.
TakesNew or gently used clean clothing. Any time: binders and tape, backpacks, unused make-up, jewelry, new underwear (S-XL), sports bras, hygiene items, everyday shoes. There is a featured item each month.
Won't takeClothing that is not clean and new or gently used. Used underwear.
Area
Sacramento (Alhambra Blvd)
Drop off
2450 Alhambra Blvd, Ste 101, Sacramento, CA 95817Wed and Fri 10am to 12pm (some items any time)
What happens to your things: Volunteer teams raise money to set up apartments; it takes no donated goods.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. Free to donate. No appointment needed. Usually tax deductible. Ask for a receipt.
TakesIt takes no goods. Volunteer Home Teams of 5 apply, pay a $50 processing donation and $19 background check, and raise about $12,000 (California) to set up an apartment.
Won't takeAll donated goods, including used furniture.
Area
Headquartered in Irvine; teams statewide
Good to know
For refugee furniture in Sacramento, use Opening Doors or IRC.
It is not a drop-off site. It does not take goods. For refugee families in Sacramento, use Opening Doors or IRC.
What happens to your things: Gives needs-list items free to people experiencing homelessness.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. Free to donate. No appointment needed. Usually tax deductible. Ask for a receipt.
Follow the money: Highest reported salary $135,652, Executive Director (2024) · Yearly revenue $11.3 million (2024) · Charity Navigator 4/4 stars.
TakesOnly needs-list items: sleeping bags, tents, tarps and blankets (new or gently used), men's and women's jeans and sweatpants, jackets (hooded preferred), new or gently used shoes, backpacks, shoelaces, bike locks and repair kits, first aid supplies, sewing kits, non-prescription reading glasses, flashlights and batteries, hand warmers, towels and washcloths, paper towels, toilet paper. It also takes new children's toys, baby bottles and sippy cups, diapers, unopened travel-size toiletries, dry or unopened pet food, large cans of coffee, powdered creamer, gift cards and all-day bus passes.
Won't takeGeneral used clothing (only needs-list items), furniture and general household goods.
Area
Sacramento (North C Street campus)
Drop off
1351 North C St, Sacramento, CA 95811 (warehouse)Mon-Fri 7am to 2:45pm
What happens to your things: Thrift sales fund Goodwill's programs.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. May charge a fee; ask before you book. No appointment needed. Usually tax deductible. Ask for a receipt.
Follow the money: Highest reported salary $512,627, President & CEO (2023) · Yearly revenue $104.3 million (2023) · Charity Navigator 2/4 stars.
TakesClean, usable, sellable items: accessories, belts and purses, antiques and collectibles, books and media, clothing and linens, computers and audio/visual equipment, gently used furniture, hand tools and small power tools, housewares and small appliances, musical instruments, shoes and boots, sporting goods and toys.
Won't takeMattresses and box springs, bed pillows, sofa beds, disassembled furniture, entertainment centers, large area rugs or carpeting, window blinds and valances, major appliances (dishwashers, stoves, washers, dryers, refrigerators), older tube TVs, pianos, lawn mowers, pool tables, auto parts and tires, construction and building materials, ammunition and firearms, fireworks and explosives, gas and gas cans, biohazard, flammable or toxic materials, household chemicals, recalled items, food and beverages, baby cribs and car seats. Nothing broken or soiled is accepted.
Area
Sacramento, Placer, El Dorado, Yolo and Nevada counties
Drop off
1900 Alhambra Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95816 (store)Donations daily 9am to 7pm
5117 Folsom Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95819 (Donation Xpress)Mon-Sat 8am to 8pm, Sun 9am to 7pm
6624 Franklin Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95823 (Donation Xpress)
4040 Florin Rd (Superstore)
5110 Foothills Blvd, Roseville (store)
Pickup
Paid pickup through ReSupply, from one item to a whole estate, usually within 48 hours.
The Salvation Army Sacramento ARC stores and pickup
Resells for a causeConfirmedNonprofitFree pickup
Helps: People in the Salvation Army's free rehab program (funded by sales)
What happens to your things: Thrift sales fund a no-fee residential drug and alcohol rehab program.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. Free to donate. No appointment needed. Usually tax deductible. Ask for a receipt.
Follow the money: The Salvation Army is registered as a church, so it does not file the public tax return (Form 990) that shows salaries.
TakesGently used clothing, furniture and household goods. Use the online scheduler to check items.
Won't takeFrom the national list (not the Sacramento page): mattresses and box springs, car seats, cribs (especially pre-2011), helmets, recalled items, damaged or stained goods, old or console TVs, car parts and tires, paint and chemicals, medical supplies. Not every location takes every item.
Area
Sacramento metro
Drop off
Rancho Cordova Family Thrift Store, 10309 Folsom Blvd, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670Mon-Sat 9am to 9pm, Sun 10am to 6pm
Pickup
Free pickup: call 1-800-SA-TRUCK or book at satruck.org. Track or change it at dss.satruck.org/MyPickups.
AMVETS Department of California Service Foundation
Resells for a causeSome details unconfirmedNonprofitFree pickup
Helps: Veterans (funded by sales)
What happens to your things: Donated goods are sold to fund veteran programs.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. Free to donate. No appointment needed. Usually tax deductible. Ask for a receipt.
Follow the money: Highest reported salary $148,698, Executive Director (2024) · Yearly revenue $11.6 million (2024).
TakesClothing for men, women and children, shoes, household items, kitchenware, tools, small appliances, lamps, electronics, books, toys, bedding, jewelry. Furniture is taken only if screened and approved first.
Won't takeFurniture that is not excellent, clean, free of stains and odors, and structurally sound.
Area
California, organized by region (Central Valley); Sacramento ZIP coverage not confirmed
Pickup
Scheduled pickup is free. Put items outside labeled "AMVETS"; drivers will not enter the home. For larger items call (877) 990-8387.
What happens to your things: Donated goods are resold to fund VVA.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. Free to donate. No appointment needed. Donations may not be tax deductible.
Follow the money: Highest reported salary $170,674, Interim General Counsel / Director of Veterans Benefits (2025) (national organization) · Yearly revenue $8.1 million (2025).
TakesClothing and household items in bags and boxes. See the site for the full list.
Won't takeNo list published. Call before you load the car.
Area
Sacramento County is in VVA's Region 3; check your ZIP
Pickup
Pickup is free. Enter your ZIP at pickupplease.org and book, sometimes within 24 hours. Leave labeled bags or boxes outside; they leave a tax receipt.
Use the website to book. Phone numbers vary by region. Pickups are run by for-profit thrift companies that buy the goods; a 2018 state filing showed the charity received about 13 to 15 percent. Vietnam Veterans of America is a veterans group, not a 501(c)(3), so donations may not be tax deductible.
Assistance League of Sacramento (Fabulous Finds on Fulton)
Gives free and resellsConfirmedNonprofit
Helps: Foster youth aging out, trafficking survivors and women re-entering the workforce (funded by sales)
What happens to your things: Resale shop sales fund free starter kits and work clothes; unsold goods go to veterans' groups.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. Free to donate. No appointment needed. Usually tax deductible. Ask for a receipt.
Follow the money: Yearly revenue $1.1 million (2024).
TakesQuality new or gently used clothing (including work clothing for Clothes for Careers), accessories, housewares, furniture, books, small appliances. Items must be undamaged, clean and working.
Won't takeAnything damaged, dirty or not working.
Area
Sacramento (Arden-Arcade, Fulton Ave)
Drop off
2751 Fulton Ave, Sacramento, CA 95821 (intake at rear of building)Donations Mon-Sat 11am to 1pm
Clothes for Careers takes no donations directly; give work clothes to the shop. The store is open Tue-Thu and Sat 10am to 4pm and Fri 10am to 6pm, and it is closed Sun-Mon.
Helps: Hospice patients and families (funded by sales)
What happens to your things: Thrift sales stay local and fund hospice care.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. May charge a fee; ask before you book. No appointment needed. Usually tax deductible. Ask for a receipt.
Follow the money: Highest reported salary $269,679, CEO (2024) · Yearly revenue $19.2 million (2024).
TakesClothing, linens, housewares, kitchenware, small kitchen appliances, jewelry, pictures and art, garden items, pet items, furniture, media (DVDs, records, CDs), and a limited number of books per day per store. It also takes shower chairs, benches, toilet risers and commodes.
Won't takeMagazines, VHS, large household appliances, anything with heavy wear, broken or unsafe furniture or other items, cribs, strollers, safety gates, car seats. The person receiving donations has final say.
Area
El Dorado County and Folsom (three stores)
Drop off
3961 El Dorado Rd, Placerville, CA 95667Mon-Sat 9am to 5pm
3300 Coach Ln, Shingle Springs, CA 95682 (Cameron Park store)Mon-Sat 9am to 5pm
616 E Bidwell St, Folsom, CA 95630Mon-Sat 9am to 5pm
Gives free and resellsConfirmedNonprofitAppointment or call first
Helps: Shelter animals in Placer County
What happens to your things: Thrift sales support adoptions, and wish-list linens are used in the shelter.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. Free to donate. Call, email or book before you go. Usually tax deductible. Ask for a receipt.
Follow the money: Highest reported salary $249,330, CEO (2023) · Yearly revenue $9.6 million (2023).
TakesThrift store: new and gently used clothing and shoes, books, furniture, housewares. Shelter wish list: blankets, fitted sheets, queen or king comforters, pillows and cushions, large stuffed dog beds, towels.
Won't takeThrift store: furs, ivory, animal teeth, feet, tails, antlers or taxidermy; firearms or ammunition; VHS tapes, DVDs or CDs; electronics (TVs, DVD/VCR players, turntables, computer gear, monitors, speakers, hard drives, thumb drives); helmets; large appliances; mattresses, bed frames, headboards, footboards, rails; children's items (except books).
Area
Roseville / Placer County
Drop off
931 Washington Blvd, Suite 107, Roseville, CA 95678 (thrift store)By pre-arranged appointment only. Email photos first to pspcathrift@placerspca.org.
This is a good home for fitted sheets, which Bradshaw refuses. The store is open Mon-Sat 10am to 5pm, Sun 11:30am to 4pm.
Thrift store donations must be pre-arranged: email photos to pspcathrift@placerspca.org. They may decline items when space is short. Shelter wish-list drop-off hours were not found.
Foothills Habitat for Humanity ReStore (Roseville)
Resells for a causeConfirmedNonprofit
Helps: Families getting affordable homes (funded by sales)
What happens to your things: ReStore sales fund Habitat's affordable housing work.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. Free to donate. No appointment needed. Usually tax deductible. Ask for a receipt.
Follow the money: Highest reported salary $88,075, Executive Director (latest filing) · Yearly revenue $811,715 (2024).
TakesNew and gently used furniture, appliances, home accessories and building materials. Items must be clean, complete, working and sellable.
Won't takePedestal or cast-iron sinks; older large heavy tools (radial arm saws, drill presses); non-working tools or tools containing gas or oil; overly large framed mirrors and unframed mirrors (medicine-cabinet mirrors OK); sectionals; hide-a-beds; electric-powered furniture; ottomans; dining tables without chairs; sewing machines; typewriters; reel-to-reel and slide projectors; carpet cleaners; vacuums (shop vacs OK).
Area
Placer County (Roseville, Loomis and nearby)
Drop off
8292 Industrial Ave, Roseville, CA 95678Wed-Sat 10am to 4:30pm, no appointment
Pickup
No residential pickup by the ReStore; it uses a pickup partner linked from the donation page.
Gives it away freeConfirmedGovernment programAppointment or call first
Helps: Older adults in need
What happens to your things: Lends equipment free to older adults; borrowers may give a small optional donation.
What you're signing up for: Run by a city, county or public program. Free to donate. Call, email or book before you go. Ask whether they give a receipt.
TakesClean, gently used wheelchairs, walkers, commodes, toilet seat risers and canes. It also takes shower chairs, benches, toilet risers and commodes.
Won't takeAnything they are overstocked on; donations are taken only when not overstocked.
Area
Davis / Yolo County (no need to live in Davis)
Drop off
646 A St, Davis, CA 95616Mon-Fri 9am to 4pm, by appointment
Ability Tools (California Assistive Technology Program) AT Exchange
Gives free and resellsConfirmedNonprofitAppointment or call first
Helps: Californians with disabilities and older adults
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. Free to donate. Call, email or book before you go. Usually tax deductible. Ask for a receipt.
TakesGently used equipment such as shower chairs, walkers, wheelchairs, patient lifts, scooters and hospital beds. You can post an item on its free AT Exchange site, or it points you to a reuse center (Sacramento reuse centers are Easterseals Superior California and RIL).
Won't takeNo list published. Call before you load the car.
Area
California (online exchange)
Good to know
Post the item at exchange.abilitytools.org or call for a referral to a reuse center.
Bradshaw Animal Shelter (Sacramento County Animal Care)
Gives it away freeConfirmedGovernment programAppointment or call first
Helps: Pets in the shelter
What happens to your things: Donated blankets and towels are used in shelter care.
What you're signing up for: Run by a city, county or public program. Free to donate. Call, email or book before you go. Ask whether they give a receipt.
TakesHigh priority: blankets, bedspreads, towels. Items must be clean and usable, with no grease or paint stains.
Won't takeSheets, pillowcases, mattress pads, quilts, rags, stuffed animals. Comforters are listed both as wanted and not accepted, so ask.
Area
Sacramento County
Drop off
3839 Bradshaw Rd, Sacramento, CA 95827
Phone
(916) 875-5848Volunteer Coordinator, call to confirm need
Good to know
Send fitted sheets to Placer SPCA instead.
Call ahead to check whether they need towels and blankets right now.
What happens to your things: Student-run mutual-aid store where every item is free.
What you're signing up for: Run by a city, county or public program. Free to donate. No appointment needed. Ask whether they give a receipt.
TakesAll clothing, even torn or stained; school and craft supplies; kitchen items; accessories; fabric; small working electronics and appliances (ask first).
Won't takeLarge furniture or electronics bigger than 2 x 2 x 2 feet (sofas, chairs, bed frames, dressers, large lighting), toiletries or opened cosmetics, menstrual products, food or drinks, anything moldy, household paints, hazardous materials (batteries, fluorescent bulbs, cleaners, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, syringes, motor oil).
Area
Davis (UC Davis campus)
Drop off
Memorial Union Room 154, 1 Shields Ave, Davis, CA 95616Mon-Fri 10am to 5pm (Wed until 6pm); closed university holidays and summer
Broad Room Creative Collective: Free Art Supply Closet
Gives it away freeSome details unconfirmedNonprofitAppointment or call first
Helps: Artists, parents, teachers, students and kids
What happens to your things: Gives art supplies free, no questions asked.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. Free to donate. Call, email or book before you go. Usually tax deductible. Ask for a receipt.
TakesClean, usable new and gently used art supplies.
Won't takeBroken supplies, recycling or trash, loose glitter, confetti or beads unless in containers, laser-cut or die-cut scraps, large panes of glass, e-waste, large equipment not pre-approved.
Area
Sacramento (Del Paso Blvd)
Drop off
1409 Del Paso Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95815By appointment only, Wed and Sat
Sacramento Area Lions Clubs eyeglass and hearing aid recycling
Gives it away freeSome details unconfirmedNonprofit
Helps: People who cannot afford glasses or hearing aids
What happens to your things: Refurbished glasses and hearing aids go free to people who cannot afford them.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. Free to donate. No appointment needed. Usually tax deductible. Ask for a receipt.
TakesUsed eyeglasses and hearing aids.
Won't takeNo list published. Call before you load the car.
Area
Sacramento region
Drop off
Elk Grove Hearing Care, 9300 W Stockton Blvd, Ste 103, Elk Grove, CA 95758 (hearing aids)
A full drop-box list may not exist yet; contact a nearby club through the club finder. Hearing aids can also be mailed to Ear of the Lion in Clovis (street address not captured).
Yolo County Central Landfill (free e-waste and Big Blue Barn reuse store)
Recycles itConfirmedGovernment program
Helps: Yolo County residents and the environment
What happens to your things: Recycles e-waste free, and reusable items are resold at the county's Big Blue Barn store.
What you're signing up for: Run by a city, county or public program. Free to donate. No appointment needed. Ask whether they give a receipt.
TakesFree e-waste: CRT and LCD monitors and TVs, laptops, DVD players, keyboards, cell phones, tablets, audio gear, printers, camcorders, GPS units, countertop appliances, vacuums. Big Blue Barn reuse drop-off: furniture, tools, supplies, working equipment, kitchenware, home decor, bikes, toys, working electronics and other usable items.
Won't takeNo list published. Call before you load the car.
Area
Yolo County residents
Drop off
44090 County Road 28H, Woodland, CA 95776Reuse drop-off daily, 8am to 3pm
What happens to your things: Recycles electronics; it does not reuse them.
What you're signing up for: Run by a private business. May charge a fee; ask before you book. No appointment needed. Not tax deductible.
TakesPhones, tablets, e-readers, laptops, desktops, hard drives, printers, scanners, fax machines. Flat-panel TVs 50 inches and under; tube TVs 31 inches and under.
Won't takeFlat-panel TVs over 50 inches and tube TVs over 31 inches. More than 2 TVs or monitors per household per day, more than 5 laptops per day, or more than 3 other items per household per day. Business items and anything hazardous.
Area
All Sacramento-area Best Buy stores
Good to know
Bring items to the customer service desk or kiosk.
Limits can change; check the Best Buy recycling page. There is no fee in California. Wipe devices first.
City of Sacramento Reuse Store (household hazardous waste facility)
Gives it away freeConfirmedGovernment program
Helps: Residents who can use leftover products
What happens to your things: Usable paint and household products are given away free.
What you're signing up for: Run by a city, county or public program. Free to donate. No appointment needed. Ask whether they give a receipt.
TakesHousehold hazardous products such as paint and cleaners at the HHW drop-off. Mostly full, labeled products in the original container go to the Reuse Store.
Won't takeOnly mostly full, original-container, labeled items go to the reuse shelf; everything else is disposed of as hazardous waste.
Area
Sacramento
Drop off
Sacramento Recycling and Transfer Station, 8491 Fruitridge Rd, Sacramento, CA 95826HHW drop-off Tue-Sat 8am to 5pm
What happens to your things: Usable cleaners and paint are set out free for residents.
What you're signing up for: Run by a city, county or public program. Free to donate. No appointment needed. Ask whether they give a receipt.
TakesHousehold hazardous waste: paint, antifreeze, gasoline, chemicals, pesticides, batteries, fluorescent and CFL bulbs and more. Usable cleaners and paint go to the reuse shelf.
Won't takeMore than 15 gallons or 125 pounds of HHW per month free.
Area
Sacramento County
Drop off
North Area Recovery Station, 4450 Roseville Rd, North Highlands, CA 95660Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat 8:30am to 4pm; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's
City of Elk Grove Special Waste Collection Center: Reuse Room
Gives it away freeConfirmedGovernment program
Helps: Elk Grove residents
What happens to your things: Usable household products are given free to Elk Grove residents.
What you're signing up for: Run by a city, county or public program. Free to donate. No appointment needed. Ask whether they give a receipt.
TakesUsable new or partly used household products: paint and wood stain, cleaners, solvents, home-improvement items (grout, sealant), lawn and garden care, pool supplies, woodworking supplies.
Won't takeItems not in good, reusable condition go to disposal, not the Reuse Room.
Area
Elk Grove (residents only)
Drop off
9255 Disposal Ln, Elk Grove, CA 95624Reuse Room Sat-Wed 9am to 3:30pm
What happens to your things: Volunteers fix broken items free; it takes no donations.
What you're signing up for: Run by a nonprofit charity. Free repair. No appointment needed. Not tax deductible.
TakesIt takes no donations. Bring broken items to fix: clothing, bikes, small appliances and electronics, jewelry, computers, knife and tool sharpening.
Won't takeDonations of any kind.
Area
West Sacramento
Drop off
Holy Cross Parish, 1321 Anna St, West SacramentoLast Saturday of the month except April and November, 9am to noon
What happens to your things: Neighbors fix items free; it takes no donations.
What you're signing up for: Run by a volunteer or community group. Free repair. No appointment needed. Not tax deductible.
TakesIt takes no donations. Bring lamps and small appliances, electrical items, clothing and sewing repairs, bikes, knives and tools to sharpen, computers.
Won't takeDonations of any kind.
Area
Sacramento (Oak Park)
Drop off
Community Shop Class, 3818 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento (rear parking lot)Second Saturday monthly, 11am to 2pm
yololab repair cafes (Yolo County Library, Davis branch)
Free repair, no donationsConfirmedGovernment program
Helps: Anyone with something to mend
What happens to your things: Volunteers help repair books and clothing free; it takes no donations.
What you're signing up for: Run by a city, county or public program. Free repair. No appointment needed. Ask whether they give a receipt.
TakesIt takes no donations. Book Repair Cafe and Clothing Repair Cafe sessions at the library makerspace.
Won't takeDonations of any kind.
Area
Davis
Drop off
Mary L. Stephens Davis Branch Library, 315 E 14th St, DavisBook Repair Cafe first Tuesdays 10am; Clothing Repair Cafe Mon and Tue 6 to 8pm, Thu 9:30 to 11:30am
Some sessions get cancelled; check the library events calendar before going.
Gives it away freeConfirmedApp or websiteFree pickup
Helps: Anyone nearby who can use the item
What happens to your things: You post the item at $0 and a neighbor takes it.
What you're signing up for: Run by a free online listing site or app. Free to donate. You need a free account to post, and you arrange pickup with strangers. Not tax deductible.
TakesAnything legal posted at $0. Recent free listings include sofas, recliners, dressers, tables, light fixtures, household goods, lumber, landscaping rock, dryers and electronics for parts.
Won't takeNo list published. Call before you load the car.
Area
Sacramento metro, including Placer, Yolo and nearby towns
Pickup
Takers come to you. Curb or porch pickup is common, or meet somewhere public.
Good to know
Our most reliable option. For handoffs, Sacramento PD has lit, camera-covered Online Exchange Zone spaces at 3550 Marysville Blvd, 5303 Franklin Blvd and 5770 Freeport Blvd. Never read back a texted code to a taker; that is a scam.
Never read back a texted verification code to a taker; it is a Google Voice scam every time.
Gives it away freeConfirmedApp or websiteFree pickup
Helps: Neighbors who can use the item
What happens to your things: Neighbors gift items to each other, and buying, selling or trading is not allowed.
What you're signing up for: Run by a free online listing site or app. Free to donate. You need a free account to post, and you arrange pickup with strangers. Not tax deductible.
TakesAny goods a neighbor can use: furniture, kitchen items, clothes, baby gear, books and more. Items are gift only.
Won't takeNo list published. Call before you load the car.
Area
All of the Sacramento region (location-based app); also a Buy Nothing Roseville (West) group
Pickup
Mostly no-contact porch pickup arranged by private message.
Good to know
Membership is free. Share your address only by private message, tag each porch gift with the recipient's name, and keep valuables inside.
What happens to your things: Neighbors give items away and post requests for what they need.
What you're signing up for: Run by a free online listing site or app. Free to donate. You need a free account to post, and you arrange pickup with strangers. Not tax deductible.
TakesHousehold items people give away; neighbors can also post requests.
Won't takeNo list published. Call before you load the car.
Area
Sacramento
Pickup
Arranged between giver and recipient.
Good to know
Tagline: "All the news that's fit to give." Selling, bidding and flipping are not allowed.
What happens to your things: Sacramento residents give used items away, strictly free.
What you're signing up for: Run by a free online listing site or app. Free to donate. You need a free account to post, and you arrange pickup with strangers. Not tax deductible.
TakesUsed household items of any kind.
Won't takeNo list published. Call before you load the car.
Area
Sacramento
Pickup
Arranged by message between giver and taker.
Good to know
It is strictly free, and trading or selling is not allowed.
Gives it away freeSome details unconfirmedApp or websiteFree pickup
Helps: Neighbors who can use the item
What happens to your things: Members give items free to other members.
What you're signing up for: Run by a free online listing site or app. Free to donate. You need a free account to post, and you arrange pickup with strangers. Not tax deductible.
TakesAnything free, legal and appropriate for all ages: furniture, household goods, tools, clothing.
Won't takeNo list published. Call before you load the car.
Area
City of Sacramento (Sacramento, Sacramento/SacramentoCA, Sacramento North, Sacramento South)
Pickup
Members pick up from the giver, usually by porch pickup.
Good to know
Active groups: Sacramento North (about 4,400 members) at freecycle.org/town/NorthSacramentoCA and Sacramento South (about 3,000 members) at freecycle.org/town/SouthSacramentoCA. There is also freecycle.org/town/SacramentoCA. The SacramentoFreecycle group page showed 0 members, so skip it. You must join (free) to see posts. Freecycle never asks for payment; any verification or lottery request is a scam. Tip: say "it's on the porch, first to arrive gets it" to beat no-shows.
Gives it away freeConfirmedApp or websiteFree pickup
Helps: Neighbors who can use the item
What happens to your things: Members give items free to other members.
What you're signing up for: Run by a free online listing site or app. Free to donate. You need a free account to post, and you arrange pickup with strangers. Not tax deductible.
TakesAnything free, legal and appropriate for all ages.
Won't takeNo list published. Call before you load the car.
Area
Elk Grove, Folsom, Citrus Heights, Carmichael, Fair Oaks, Rancho Cordova
Pickup
Members pick up from the giver.
Good to know
List a parent's house in its own town group so pickups stay local. Links: freecycle.org/town/FolsomCA, groups.freecycle.org/CitrusHeightsCA, groups.freecycle.org/Carmichael_CA, freecycle.org/town/FairOaksCA, freecycle.org/town/RanchoCordovaCA.
Freecycle: Roseville, Auburn and Placerville groups
Gives it away freeConfirmedApp or websiteFree pickup
Helps: Neighbors who can use the item
What happens to your things: Members give items free to other members.
What you're signing up for: Run by a free online listing site or app. Free to donate. You need a free account to post, and you arrange pickup with strangers. Not tax deductible.
TakesAnything free, legal and appropriate for all ages.
Won't takeNo list published. Call before you load the car.
Area
Roseville, Auburn, Placerville
Pickup
Members pick up from the giver.
Good to know
Links: freecycle.org/town/AuburnCA, freecycle.org/town/PlacervilleCA. Roseville is also reachable in the Trash Nothing app.
Freecycle: Davis, West Sacramento and Woodland groups
Gives it away freeConfirmedApp or websiteFree pickup
Helps: Neighbors who can use the item
What happens to your things: Members give items free to other members.
What you're signing up for: Run by a free online listing site or app. Free to donate. You need a free account to post, and you arrange pickup with strangers. Not tax deductible.
TakesAnything free, legal and appropriate for all ages.
Won't takeNo list published. Call before you load the car.
Area
Davis, West Sacramento, Woodland (Yolo County)
Pickup
Members pick up from the giver.
Good to know
Davis has one of the largest groups in the region, which helps in college move-out season. Links: freecycle.org/town/WestSacramentoCa, freecycle.org/town/WoodlandCA.
Gives it away freeConfirmedApp or websiteFree pickup
Helps: Neighbors who can use the item
What happens to your things: You post a photo and people nearby message you; you choose who gets it.
What you're signing up for: Run by a free online listing site or app. Free to donate. You need a free account to post, and you arrange pickup with strangers. Not tax deductible.
TakesFurniture, household items, books, food, baby stuff, clothes and more.
Won't takeNo list published. Call before you load the car.
Area
Sacramento; also connects to Sacramento North, West Sacramento and Roseville Freecycle groups
Pickup
Most pickups happen on a porch or curb, or at a public place.
Good to know
It is free, and no payment or card is ever required. It works as an easier front end to Freecycle groups.
Gives it away freeConfirmedApp or websiteFree pickup
Helps: Neighbors who can use the item
What happens to your things: You list an item at $0 for neighbors to claim.
What you're signing up for: Run by a free online listing site or app. May charge a fee; ask before you book. You need a free account to post, and you arrange pickup with strangers. Not tax deductible.
TakesAnything listed at $0. Recent free posts include ottomans, office chairs, rugs, mirrors, desks, bookshelves, garden pots, pet beds, tools, treadmills and coolers.
Won't takeNo list published. Call before you load the car.
Area
Sacramento, with separate pages for Carmichael, North Highlands and West Sacramento
Pickup
Curbside or porch pickup is common; "curb alert" posts appear regularly.
Good to know
Choose "Sell or give away", then "Free". There are no listing fees, and anyone can browse without an account.
Gift-card or wire requests are almost always fraud. Meet at a busy public spot.
Gives it away freeSome details unconfirmedApp or website
Helps: Neighbors who can use the item
What happens to your things: Neighbors share surplus food and household items free.
What you're signing up for: Run by a free online listing site or app. May charge a fee; ask before you book. You need a free account to post, and you arrange pickup with strangers. Not tax deductible.
TakesSurplus food plus non-food items such as books, clothes, toys, toiletries and furniture.
Won't takeNo list published. Call before you load the car.
Area
US-wide; Sacramento activity not confirmed
Pickup
The taker picks up within a radius they set.
Good to know
It is free, with no vetting or fees.
It is still operating, but use in the Sacramento area is unconfirmed. Check the map for a Sacramento ZIP first; treat as a backup.
Like what you're seeing? Call us at (916) 633-6787 and we'll get you to the right person.
Live out of town?
Who will come to the house
These places pick up, so nobody has to rent a truck. Free pickups are listed first. Most book a week or more out, so call early.
St. Vincent de Paul Society Sacramento
Free pickup
Helps: People in need served by local parish conferences
Furniture pickup is free. Call (916) 972-1212 and send photos, your name, full address and phone. The truck runs Sun to Thu, and the average wait is about 5 days. Pickup is subject to the transportation team's approval.
Helps: Survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and trafficking
Pickups are preferred for large donations, scheduled 4 days a week, currently about 1 to 2 weeks out. Call (916) 643-4606. Email furniture photos first.
The things most charities turn away, and where they can go instead.
Old prescription medications
Bag them up and drop them in a free medication take-back kiosk at a pharmacy, police station, or county drop-off. California's SB 212 program makes this free statewide, and you can also order a free prepaid mail-back envelope.
Never: Never flush medications or pour them down the drain, and never leave them in the trash where someone can find them. Do not bring medications to the open house or leave them in the home during showings.
MED-Project (California SB 212 program) · Free kiosk locator and free prepaid mail-back envelopes for household medicationsUse the online locator or call the call center, 24/7, to find a kiosk or order a mail-back package(844) 633-7765 (844-MED-PROJECT)Website
Walgreens disposal kiosks · Kiosks for household medicationsExamples: 4200 Arden Way, Sacramento; 7299 Laguna Blvd, Elk Grove; 6144 Dewey Dr, Citrus Heights; 1351 W Capitol Ave, West Sacramento. Use the store locator to confirm the kiosk before you go.Website
CVS disposal kiosks · Drop-off for expired or unused medications during pharmacy hoursUse the CVS store locator filtered for medication disposalWebsite
Sacramento County sheriff and police station kiosks · Listed kiosk sites include Sheriff Central Division and North Division stations, Folsom PD, Rancho Cordova PD, Elk Grove PD Call firstCall ahead to confirm lobby hours. The list comes from an archived county page, so confirm locations are still active.Sacramento Sheriff non-emergency (916) 874-5115Website
Elk Grove Special Waste Collection Center · Accepts household hazardous waste and over-the-counter medications for any Sacramento County resident9255 Disposal Lane, Elk Grove. Saturday to Wednesday, 9 am to 4 pm. Bring proof of residency.(916) 478-2228Website
Needles and sharps (syringes, insulin pens, lancets)
Put them in a hard sharps container and either mail them back free through California's SB 212 program or drop them at a household hazardous waste facility.
Never: Never put loose needles in the trash or recycling, never recap or snap needles, and never pack them in a bag that someone else will carry out.
MED-Project sharps mail-back · Free one-quart sharps container (holds up to 500 needles) with prepaid return postageOrder online or by phone, fill it, drop it in a USPS mailbox(844) 633-7765Website
City of Sacramento HHW at Sacramento Recycling and Transfer Station · Household sharps in an approved container, plus other HHW8491 Fruitridge Rd, Sacramento 95826. Tuesday to Saturday, 8 am to 5 pm.(916) 379-0500 or 311Website
Placer County: WPWMA HHW facility · Western Placer household hazardous waste Call first3195 Athens Ave, Lincoln 95648. Open daily 8 am to 5 pm except major holidays. Confirm sharps acceptance by phone.Website
Yolo County Central Landfill HHW · Household hazardous waste Call first44090 County Road 28H, Woodland. Thursday to Saturday, 7:30 am to 3:30 pm. Confirm sharps acceptance by phone.(866) 714-8470Website
El Dorado Disposal HHW · Household hazardous waste, free Call first4100 Throwita Way, Diamond Springs. Friday to Sunday, 9 am to 4 pm. Confirm sharps acceptance by phone.(530) 626-4141Website
Boxes of old paperwork (bank statements, tax returns, medical records)
Keep the last seven years of tax records and anything the estate attorney or executor needs, then shred the rest. Free community shred days happen a few times a year; between events, pay-by-the-pound shredding at office stores is the fastest option.
Never: Never put documents with Social Security numbers, account numbers, or signatures in the curbside recycling bin, and never burn them in the yard.
Recology Davis Shred Day · Free shredding, limit four file boxesSaturday, October 17, 2026, 9 am to noon or until trucks fill, Davis Recycling Center, 2727 2nd St, Davis. Davis residential customers only.Website
Office Depot / OfficeMax in-store shredding · Same-day pay-by-the-pound shreddingA Sacramento store page lists 99 cents per pound. Price can vary by store, so call first.Website
The UPS Store shredding · Pay-by-the-pound shreddingShred while you wait. Each store sets its own price, usually about $0.99 to $2.50 a pound, so call your local store first.Website
Golden 1 Credit Union shred event · Has hosted free community shred days at its headquarters, 8945 Cal Center Drive, in past years (up to five boxes) Call firstNo 2026 date announced yet. Check golden1.com or ask a branch.Website
Buddhist Church of Sacramento free shred and e-waste event · Free drive-through shredding, donations welcomeIt was held May 30, 2026. Watch for a 2027 date.Website
Memory Nest Digital · Secure shredding along with photo and document scanningIt serves Loomis, Rocklin, Roseville and Sacramento. The service is paid.(916) 581-1149Website
Cribs, car seats, and old helmets
Charities and thrift stores usually refuse these because of recalls, expiration dates, and unknown crash or impact history. Recycle car seats through Target's twice-yearly trade-in or a year-round program, and do not pass old cribs or helmets on for reuse.
Never: Never donate or sell an expired, crashed, or recalled car seat, a drop-side crib (banned nationwide in 2011), or an expired or dropped helmet.
Target Car Seat Trade-In · Takes any car seat, including expired or damaged ones, for recycling, and gives a 20% Target Circle bonus on baby gearFall 2026 event ran September 20 to October 3, 2026, so it is over. The spring 2026 event ran April 19 to May 2. Watch for spring 2027 dates.Website
Clek car seat recycling · Year-round recycling of any brand of car seatOrder a recycling kit (small fee, mostly shipping), drop it at a UPS storeWebsite
Yolo County Car Seat Recycling Program · Free car seat recycling drop-offHHSA Gonzales Building in Woodland and HHSA Winters Office. Call for times.(530) 406-4410Website
City of Sacramento bulky item pickup · Old cribs and other bulky items can go out with a scheduled junk pickup Call firstRequest a pickup through 311. Confirm crib acceptance when you book.311Website
TerraCycle Sporting Goods Zero Waste Box · Accepts bike helmets for recycling Call firstIt is a paid mail-in box. There is no national free helmet recycling program.Website
Pianos and organs
Be ready for the honest truth: most older uprights and organs have little or no resale value, and free donation depends on brand, age, condition, and whether it still holds a tune. Try a donation program first, then a free local listing, and budget for a piano mover or removal service if no one takes it.
Never: Never try to move a piano with friends and a dolly down stairs, and never assume a charity will pick it up for free without asking first.
Pianos for Education · Nationwide piano donation program that reviews pianos by brand and size; free pickup if accepted; tax-deductibleSubmit the online donation form. Not every piano is accepted.Website
Sacramento Performing Arts Conservatory instrument drive · Lists pianos among large instruments it accepts for its student instrument loan program Call firstCall or email before delivering anything this large(916) 308-2307Website
Local piano removal and donation services · Several Sacramento companies remove pianos for a fee and try to place them with families, schools, or charities, or recycle them Call firstExamples include Nance Property Services and pianoremovalca.com. Get a quote before booking.Website
Free listings (Freecycle, Nextdoor, Craigslist Free) · Gives a free piano to someone who will arrange their own move Call firstList it as free with a clear pickup deadlineWebsite
Large console and tube (CRT) TVs
Old tube TVs contain lead and are e-waste, so they cannot go in the trash. County and city residents can drop them off free or schedule a free e-waste pickup.
Never: Never put a TV in a garbage cart or leave it at the curb without a scheduled pickup, and never break the glass tube.
City of Sacramento e-waste and appliance pickup · Up to two free pickup appointments per year, up to four e-waste items each, TVs includedBook through 311 or the city website (city customers only)311Website
North Area Recovery Station (Sacramento County) · Accepts CRT TVs, monitors, and other e-waste from residents at no fee4450 Roseville Rd, North Highlands 95660. Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, 8:30 am to 4 pm.(916) 875-5555 (county main line)Website
Sacramento County unincorporated bulky waste pickup · One free bulky waste pickup per year, including e-waste and appliances, for unincorporated county residentsSchedule online or in the SacGreenTeam app311Website
Elk Grove Special Waste Collection Center · Electronics accepted from Sacramento County residents9255 Disposal Lane, Elk Grove. Saturday to Wednesday, 9 am to 4 pm.(916) 478-2228Website
El Dorado, Placer, and Yolo county facilities · E-waste accepted at county landfill and transfer facilities Call firstCall your county facility to confirm TV acceptance and any feeWebsite
Propane tanks, fire extinguishers, ammunition, and firearms
Propane tanks go to a household hazardous waste facility. Ammunition and firearms go to law enforcement (call first) or through a licensed firearms dealer, and California has specific rules for inherited guns.
Never: Never put propane tanks, extinguishers, ammunition, or firearms at the curb, in the trash, or in an estate sale. Never ship or hand a firearm to a buyer or relative without checking California transfer law, and never walk into a police station carrying a gun without calling first.
Sacramento County NARS HHW facility · Propane tanks (barbecue size, limit two, 5 to 7 gallons max). Ammunition and explosives are NOT accepted.4450 Roseville Rd, North Highlands. Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, 8:30 am to 4 pm. Up to 15 gallons or 125 lbs of HHW per month free.(916) 875-5555Website
City of Sacramento HHW, Fruitridge Road · Propane cylinders accepted. Fire extinguishers were not listed on the accepted list, so call first.8491 Fruitridge Rd, Sacramento. Tuesday to Saturday, 8 am to 5 pm.(916) 379-0500 or 311Website
Fire extinguishers at HHW · Acceptance of household fire extinguishers varies by facility Call firstCall your county HHW facility before you bring one
Sacramento Police Department · Accepts unwanted firearms; has also held periodic buyback eventsCall the non-emergency line first(916) 808-5471Website
Placer County Sheriff · Takes firearms and ammunition for destructionYou must call before bringing them in(530) 886-3880Website
Licensed firearms dealer (FFL) and California DOJ · Legal transfer of inherited firearms. Parent, child, grandparent, or grandchild heirs can skip the dealer but must file Form BOF 4544A within 30 days and hold a Firearm Safety Certificate. Everyone else must go through a dealer.Talk to the estate attorney or a local FFL before moving any gun. Assault weapons cannot be inherited and have a 90-day deadline.Website
Batteries, fluorescent bulbs, and old mercury thermostats
All three are household hazardous waste in California and go to a free HHW drop-off. Many hardware and electronics stores also take rechargeable batteries and unbroken CFL bulbs.
Never: Never put batteries in the trash or recycling cart (they start truck and facility fires), never break fluorescent tubes, and never pull the mercury bulb out of an old thermostat.
City of Sacramento HHW, Fruitridge Road · Household batteries, fluorescent tubes and CFLs, mercury thermostats and thermometers8491 Fruitridge Rd. Tuesday to Saturday, 8 am to 5 pm, free for residents.(916) 379-0500 or 311Website
Sacramento County NARS and Kiefer facilities · HHW drop-off for county residentsNARS: 4450 Roseville Rd, North Highlands, Tue/Thu/Fri/Sat 8:30 am to 4 pm. Kiefer: Tuesday to Saturday 8:30 am to 4 pm.(916) 875-5555Website
Elk Grove Special Waste Collection Center · Batteries, fluorescent bulbs, and other HHW9255 Disposal Lane. Saturday to Wednesday, 9 am to 4 pm.(916) 478-2228Website
Placer: WPWMA HHW · Free HHW for western Placer residents3195 Athens Ave, Lincoln. Daily 8 am to 5 pm.Website
Yolo County Central Landfill HHW · Batteries and fluorescent bulbs or tubes44090 County Road 28H, Woodland. Thursday to Saturday, 7:30 am to 3:30 pm. Pickup is free for seniors 65+ who cannot drive.(866) 714-8470Website
El Dorado Disposal HHW · Free HHW drop-off4100 Throwita Way, Diamond Springs. Friday to Sunday, 9 am to 4 pm.(530) 626-4141Website
Home Depot, Lowe's, Best Buy · Rechargeable batteries; Home Depot and Lowe's also take unbroken CFLs Call firstAsk at the service desk; check store before goingWebsite
Wedding dresses
Some charities turn donated wedding gowns into burial gowns for infants, but several programs have more dresses than they need and use waitlists. Contact the program first and only send clean gowns from a smoke-free home.
Never: Never mail a gown to a charity without filling out their donation form or getting a yes first, and never send one that smells of smoke or is heavily stained.
NICU Helping Hands Angel Gown Program · Turns wedding gowns into infant burial gownsGowns are accepted on an as-needed waitlist through the online donation form; a seamstress near you contacts you if neededWebsite
Little Angel Gowns · Makes infant burial attire from donated wedding gowns and certain bridesmaid dresses; listed as serving SacramentoEmail first for their current acceptance policy: littleangelgownsltd@gmail.comWebsite
Sacramento-based angel gown chapter · A local Sacramento angel gown group Call firstNo Sacramento chapter was found in search.
Angel Gowns of South Bay · California angel gown groupNot accepting gowns at last report; waitlist onlyWebsite
Military memorabilia, uniforms, and flags
Worn U.S. flags can go to a veterans group or a flag drop box for a proper retirement ceremony. Uniforms, medals, and papers may interest the California State Military Museum or family members first, so ask before anything leaves the house.
Never: Never put a U.S. flag in the trash, and never throw out discharge papers (DD-214) or medals before the family and executor have seen them.
SAFE Credit Union flag collection drive · Bins at SAFE branches and Folsom HQ (2295 Iron Point Rd); flags go to VFW Post 6604 in Folsom for retirementAnnual drive around Memorial Day to June 30; the 2026 drive has ended. Watch for 2027.Website
Local VFW posts · Most posts accept worn flags year-round for retirement ceremonies Call firstExample: Nisei VFW Post 8985, 1515 Fourth St, Sacramento. Call the post before dropping off.
Scout troops · Many troops collect and retire flags Call firstAsk a local troop
California State Military Museum · Official state military museum; accepts uniforms and memorabilia by arrangementContact before donating artifacts(916) 854-3040Website
Photos, slides, and home movies
Do not split the originals until everything is scanned once. Have one person collect them, get them digitized, share a single online folder with every sibling, then divide the originals.
Never: Never toss slides, film reels, or tapes because nobody owns a player, and never mail the only copy of anything without tracking.
Memory Nest Digital · Photo scanning, slide scanning, VHS to digital, document scanningServes Loomis, Rocklin, Roseville and Sacramento(916) 581-1149Website
Capture (retail partners) · Digitizing through Costco, CVS, Walmart and Sam's Club drop-off locationsUse the Capture locatorWebsite
CVS Photo home movie transfer · Converts VHS, Betamax, Video8, Hi-8 and more to digital filesDrop off at a participating CVSWebsite
Kodak Digitizing Box · Mail-in kit for photos, slides, film, and tapesOrder onlineWebsite
Quilts and handmade items
Offer handmade pieces to family first, since they rarely sell for much. For leftover fabric and yarn or unused quilts, ask a local quilt guild or charity sewing group whether they can use them.
Never: Never send used, smoky, or pet-hair covered blankets to children's charities like Project Linus; they only take new handmade blankets from smoke-free homes.
River City Quilters' Guild · Sacramento guild that makes quilts for veterans and community service projects Call firstMeets 3rd Tuesday, 7 pm, Swanston Community Center, 2350 Northrop Ave, Sacramento. Email president@rivercityquilters.org to ask if they take fabric or quilt donations.Website
Project Linus, Sacramento chapter · Gives NEW handmade, washable blankets to children 0 to 18 Call firstUsed blankets do not qualify. Ask whether they want unused fabric or yarn.Website
Local hospice volunteer programs · Some hospices use donated lap quilts Call firstCall the hospice volunteer office first
Old cars
If no one in the family wants it and it is not worth selling, donate it to a charity vehicle program that offers free towing. Running or not, most programs take it, but the title must be in order first.
Never: Never hand over the car without signing the title correctly and filing a California DMV Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability, and never let it sit unregistered in front of a listed home.
CapRadio Vehicle Donation Program · Free pickup of donated vehicles, running or not, which are sold to fund CapRadio's public radio programmingCall 877-CARS-CPR or fill in the online form. A licensed tow company picks up at no cost and gives you a receipt at pickup. You need a clear title with any lien released. Non-running vehicles must be in one piece, towable and reachable by a tow truck. The sale takes about 4 to 12 weeks; if it sells for over $500 you get IRS Form 1098-C showing the sale price.(877) 227-7277 (877-CARS-CPR)Website
PBS KVIE vehicle donation · Takes cars, trucks, vans, RVs, motorcycles, trailered boats; non-running OK; free towing; no smog needed; tax-deductibleOnline form or call, 7 days a week(877) 584-3227 (877-KVIE-CAR)Website
Wind Youth Services · Sacramento homeless youth nonprofit Call firstNo vehicle donation program was found in search, so call to ask.(916) 504-3313Website
Other Sacramento charity vehicle programs · Assistance League of Sacramento, World Relief Sacramento, Sacramento Children's Home, Stanford Sierra Youth and Families list vehicle donation Call firstCheck each program's page for termsWebsite
Food in the pantry
Sealed, shelf-stable, unexpired food can go to a food bank. Open packages, glass jars, and anything perishable usually cannot.
Never: Never donate opened, homemade, refrigerated, or expired baby food, and never leave food in a vacant listing where it draws pests.
Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services · Accepts drop-off of goods; check their current needed-items list Call first3333 3rd Ave, Sacramento 95817. Monday to Thursday 8:30 am to 4 pm, Friday 8:30 am to 3:30 pm. Call to confirm drop-off hours.(916) 456-1980Website
River City Food Bank · Sacramento food bank; takes canned and dry goodsCall to schedule if you have 100 or more itemsWebsite
Placer Food Bank (Feeding the Foothills) · Serves Placer, Nevada and El Dorado counties Call first8284 Industrial Ave, Roseville 95678. Monday to Friday 8 am to 4 pm. Call about donation drop-off.(916) 783-0481Website
Yolo Food Bank · Receiving warehouse takes drop-offs, no appointment233 Harter Ave, Woodland 95776. Receiving: Monday to Friday 7 am to 2 pm.(530) 668-0690Website
Musical instruments (other than pianos)
Local music education groups take donated band and orchestra instruments, fix them up, and loan or give them to students. Donations are tax-deductible.
Never: Never toss an old instrument without checking value first; some older brass, woodwind, and string instruments are worth having appraised.
Sacramento Jazz Education Foundation, Instrument Match · Takes donated instruments, pays for repairs, matches them with students; volunteer arranges pickupFill out the online form or call(916) 571-5533Website
Sacramento Performing Arts Conservatory · Instrument drive for its loan program serving Title I schools in several Sacramento-area districtsCall or email clara.spac@live.com(916) 308-2307Website
Sacramento Youth Symphony instrument donation · Possible instrument donation program Call firstIt was not found in search, so call to ask.
Collectibles, antiques, and jewelry with possible value
Get a professional opinion before anything is sold, donated, or divided. Most furniture and collectibles sell for less than families expect, but a few pieces can be worth real money, and a written appraisal helps the executor and avoids family disputes.
Never: Never let a buyer who offers to clear the whole house name the price on valuables, and never sell jewelry by weight before an appraiser has looked at it.
Nunneley Estates and Appraisals · ISA Certified Appraiser of Personal Property; written appraisals, estate sales, consignment and auction guidance3941 Park Drive Ste 20-609, El Dorado Hills 95762(916) 833-4678Website
Linda Hawthorne, Estate Sales and Appraisals · ISA accredited member; Sacramento estate servicesSee websiteWebsite
Find an appraiser directories (ISA, ASA Northern California) · Search for accredited personal property appraisers near youLook for ISA, ASA or AAA credentials and USPAP-compliant reportsWebsite
CPAP and BiPAP machines
A CPAP that your parent owned can often be donated to a sleep apnea program, but regular thrift stores are not the place for it because it is a prescription device. First check the 2021 Philips Respironics recall: many older Philips machines, including the original DreamStation line, are on it, and donation programs will not take recalled machines. Most programs want working machines under about 6 years old from a smoke-free home.
Confirm your parent owned it (Medicare transfers ownership after 13 months of rental); if not, return it to the supplier
Check the brand and model against the Philips recall list
Leave the SD card in if the program asks for it; Breathe California erases it before reuse
Email or call the program before shipping anything
Unopened masks and supplies in original packaging are often accepted too; used masks and tubing are not
Breathe California of the Bay Area (CPAP program)Email cpap@lungsrus.org before shipping or dropping off; machines under 6 years old; asks for an extra $40 to cover shipping and gives a donation receipt408-998-5865Website
Wellness, Sleep and Circadian Network (ASAA)Ship to WSCN, PO Box 1072, Tracy, MN 56175; working, data-capable machines with SD card, smoke-free home; no Philips Respironics machines; donor pays shippingWebsite
Reggie White Sleep Disorders FoundationCall firstAccepts new or gently used CPAP and BiPAP machines and accessoriesWebsite
Hospital beds, lift chairs, and other large medical equipment
Most thrift stores will not take hospital beds or lift chairs (power recliners), so plan on a medical equipment loan closet or a reuse program instead. First make sure the bed is not a rental or hospice item that has to go back. Loan closets have limited space and some only serve their own members, so call before you load the truck.
Confirm the bed or chair is owned, not rented or from hospice
Test that motors, remotes, and cords work; broken power items are usually refused
Call a loan closet and describe the item (brand, age, working or not)
If no one local takes it, post it free on the Ability Tools AT Exchange
Smaller items (walkers, canes, commodes, manual wheelchairs) are easier to place than beds
Parkinson Association of Northern California loan closetCall firstLends wheelchairs, scooters, hospital beds, and shower equipment to members; call to ask about donating(916) 489-0226Website
Easterseals Superior California loan closetCall first3205 Hurley Way, Sacramento; lends manual wheelchairs, walkers, canes, commodes, crutches; call to ask about donating(916) 485-6711Website
ALS Association loan closetCall firstServes people with ALS only; ask whether they take donated wheelchairs or mobility equipment(916) 979-9265Website
Ability Tools AT Exchange (statewide)Call firstFree online listing to give away or sell hospital beds, lifts, wheelchairs, and other equipment to California residentsWebsite
Pets left behind
If a parent dies or moves into care, the pet needs a plan right away, and shelters in Sacramento have waiting lists. Sacramento County's Bradshaw shelter does not take routine owner surrenders, and the Sacramento SPCA takes them by appointment only through an online wait list. Free rehoming sites like Home to Home let you place the pet directly with a new family without a shelter stay.
Ask family, neighbors, and friends of your parent first
Gather vet records, vaccine history, and notes on food, habits, and temperament
Check whether the pet was microchipped and update the contact information
Post on Home to Home or another free rehoming site
If you must surrender, get on the Sacramento SPCA wait list early; waits can run days to weeks
Contact the breed rescue for purebred dogs or cats
Sacramento SPCA (owner surrender)Call firstAppointment required; join the wait list at sspca.org/intake; fee applies(916) 504-2851Website
Home to Home (City of Sacramento rehoming)Free direct owner-to-adopter listingWebsite
Front Street Animal Shelter (City of Sacramento)City shelter at 2127 Front Street; see their Can't Keep Your Pet page for optionsWebsite
Bradshaw Animal Shelter (Sacramento County)No routine owner surrenders; call 311 to ask case by case(916) 875-4311Website
Office furniture, filing cabinets, fabric, and yarn
Home office desks, chairs, and filing cabinets can go to the Habitat ReStore or another thrift store in good shape, but large or L-shaped desks are often refused. Empty and shred the contents of every filing cabinet first, and find the keys. Big stashes of yarn, fabric, and craft supplies have good homes in Sacramento beyond the American Sewing Guild.
Empty filing cabinets completely and shred personal papers
Find or tape the keys to locking cabinets and desks
Measure and photograph large desks before calling
Bag yarn by type and fabric by size; remove anything moldy or smoke-damaged
Book an appointment before dropping off craft supplies
Habitat for Humanity Greater Sacramento ReStoreCall firstAsk about desks, office chairs, and filing cabinets in good conditionWebsite
Broad Room Creative Collective (Free Art Supply Closet)1409 Del Paso Blvd, Sacramento; art and craft supply donations by appointment Wednesdays and SaturdaysWebsite
Assistance League of Sacramento (Senior Friendship program)Call firstGives yarn and fabric to seniors who knit, crochet, and sew for people in crisis; contact to ask about donating(916) 488-0828Website
Room by room
Every item in the house
Walk through the house with us. Every common item, and where it can go. Some things have no good donation home, and we say so.
Kitchen (5)
Pots, pans, dishes, utensils, glasses
Families-starting-over groups (Love INC, Make It Happen, IRC by appointment, Elk Grove HART) want working kitchen goods; everything else can go to Goodwill or a hospice thrift.
Refrigerator, washer, dryer, stove
This is covered. Working ones go to Love INC, the ReStores or the American River Hauling donation program; dead ones are free at NARS and Kiefer (up to two a day).
Sealed pantry food
See "What do I do with...?" above. Opened food goes in the green organics cart.
Small kitchen appliances (toaster, slow cooker, mixer, coffee maker)
Working ones go to Next Move, IRC or Goodwill; broken ones are free e-waste at county facilities.
Wine, liquor and beerNo good donation home
In California you cannot sell alcohol without a license, and charities can only use donated bottles for an auction or event they hold an ABC permit for. Give bottles to family or friends, ask a nonprofit whether its next auction can take a good bottle, or pour it out and recycle the glass.
Dining room (1)
China sets, crystal, silver-plate serving pieces
This is covered through thrift stores that take housewares and antiques (Goodwill, Snowline, Assistance League). Sterling silver and signed crystal can be worth real money, so check them with the appraisers in "What do I do with...?" above before donating.
Living room (7)
Area rugs
Goodwill refuses large area rugs. Clean rugs with no cuts, tears or stains can go to the Greater Sacramento Habitat ReStore or on a free listing; worn ones are trash or bulky pickup.
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Sacramento ReStore · Area rugs free of cuts, tears and stains Call firstCheck the donation page or call before loadingWebsite
Nextdoor Free Finds / Buy Nothing · Area rugs are a common free postPost at $0Website
Artwork and framed prints
This is covered. Snowline Thrift takes pictures and art, and Heart to Home asks for wall art for newly housed veterans. Original art by a known artist belongs with the valuables appraisers first.
Curtains and drapes
Fabric curtains go to thrift stores with linens, or to Aggie Reuse and ReCreate as fabric. Goodwill does not take blinds or valances, so those go on a free listing or in the trash.
Musical instruments and pianos
See "What do I do with...?" above.
Old magazines, including stacks of National GeographicNo good donation home
Old National Geographics are almost never worth money, and thrift stores like Snowline refuse magazines. Offer a box to the Book Den or a school art teacher, and put the rest in the blue recycling cart.
Sofas, chairs, tables, dressers, lamps
You can try furniture banks, St. Vincent de Paul, Habitat ReStores and free listing sites. AMVETS lists lamps.
TVs, computers, printers, stereos
This is covered. Free e-waste drop-off in every county, Best Buy recycling, and Goodwill for working computers and AV gear. For tube TVs, see "What do I do with...?" above.
Bedrooms (7)
Bibles, rosaries and religious items
Check family Bibles for births, marriages and deaths written inside before anything leaves. Rosaries and statues go best to the parent's own church or any Catholic parish rosary group; extra Bibles can go to the Book Den or a prison book ministry.
The parent's own church or a local Catholic parish · Parish rosary groups repair and send rosaries to missions; churches pass Bibles to chaplains and shelters Call firstCall the parish office
Prison Alliance (formerly Christian Library International) · Gently used Bibles (large-print and Spanish especially wanted) and Christian books for prisoners in all 50 statesEmail or call for approval before shipping more than a few books(919) 790-6987Website
Friends of the Sacramento Public Library: Book Den · General books, including religious titles in good shape8250 Belvedere Ave, Suite E, Sacramento; Wed and Sat 9 am to noon(916) 731-8493Website
Eyeglasses and hearing aids
Try the Sacramento area Lions Clubs collection boxes.
Old cell phones and smartphones
A working or not-too-old phone can still help someone: even with no service it can call 911. Wipe it first (see "Before you donate" above), then mail it to a phone charity or drop it at a collection point; dead phones are free e-waste.
911 Cell Phone Bank (Charitable Recycling Foundation) · Takes phones, tablets, laptops, smart watches and accessories; data-erases them and gives them to police and victim agencies for domestic violence and trafficking survivorsRequest a free prepaid shipping label online and mail the box(866) 290-7864Website
Cell Phones for Soldiers · Recycles donated phones to pay for calling cards and help for active-duty troops and veterans Call firstMail in, or use a drop-off site such as Red D Transmission, 6601 Fair Oaks Blvd, Carmichael (business hours); find others on the siteWebsite
WEAVE (Sacramento domestic violence agency) · Gives emergency cell phones to survivors; whether it accepts used phones directly was not confirmed Call firstCall first and ask before bringing phones(916) 920-2952Website
Photos and home movies, quilts, wedding dresses
See "What do I do with...?" above.
Sheets, blankets, comforters, pillows
This is covered. Clean usable bedding goes to Next Move, Gathering Inn or Loaves & Fishes; worn towels and blankets go to the animal shelters.
Stained or worn mattresses, box springs and old pillowsNo good donation home
No charity takes these. Mattresses and box springs are free to recycle through Bye Bye Mattress (already in the guide); old pillows go in the trash, or clean ones to the Placer SPCA for animal bedding.
Walkers, canes, wheelchairs, mobility scooters
Try the medical equipment loan closets, Easterseals, Parkinson Association and the Ability Tools exchange (scooters).
Bathroom (5)
Dentures and partialsNo good donation home
Dentures are custom made, so nobody can reuse them. Clean them and put them in the trash; if they have a gold or metal framework, a dentist or a precious-metal refiner may take them.
Medications, sharps, old paperwork
See "What do I do with...?" above.
Opened toiletries, makeup, perfume and lotionsNo good donation home
No charity takes opened personal care products. Use them up, give them to family, or put them in the trash; aerosol cans that still spray, nail polish and nail polish remover go to household hazardous waste.
Unopened toiletries and hotel soaps
This is covered. Sealed hygiene items go to The Gathering Inn, My Sister's House or Zak's Closet. Opened products are in the no-good-home list.
Unused ostomy supplies
Unopened ostomy pouches and wafers are badly needed by uninsured people and clinics overseas. No Sacramento collection point was found, so mail them to a national group.
Friends of Ostomates Worldwide (FOW-USA) · Unused ostomy supplies shipped to clinics and people worldwide; sends a tax receiptMail to FOW-USA, 4018 Bishop Lane, Louisville, KY 40218-4539; small amounts in a flat-rate box, include your name and addressWebsite
Kindred Box · Collects donated ostomy supplies for uninsured and underinsured people in the U.S. Call firstSee the site for mailing instructionsWebsite
Closets (9)
Everyday clothing and coats
This is covered. Loaves & Fishes asks for jackets and jeans, WEAVE and the hospice thrifts take general clothing, and Aggie Reuse takes even torn or stained clothing for textile reuse.
Men's suits, dress shirts and work clothes
WEAVE to Work gives free professional clothing to people going back to work, and the Assistance League takes work clothing at its Fabulous Finds on Fulton shop for its Clothes for Careers program. Jeans, work pants and boots go to Loaves & Fishes or Wind Youth Services.
WEAVE to Work (at WEAVE Thrift) · Professional clothing given free to people re-entering the workforceDrop off Mon, Wed and Fri 10:30 am to 1:30 pm at 2401 Arden Way, Sacramento; large donations can be picked up(916) 643-4606Website
Assistance League of Sacramento: Clothes for Careers · Work clothing (already in the guide under the thrift store)Drop off work clothing at Fabulous Finds on Fulton, 2751 Fulton Ave, Sacramento (intake Mon-Sat 11am to 1pm, rear of building). (916) 488-0828.Website
Sacramento Loaves & Fishes · Men's jeans, sweatpants, jackets and shoes from its needs listSee this place in the map list above.Website
Prom and formal dresses, suits and dress shoes
Sacramento Public Library runs a yearly Prom Drive that hands out donated formalwear free to teens 13 to 19. Donations usually open in January at library branches.
Sacramento Public Library Prom Drive · Gently used dresses, suit jackets, ties, shoes and accessories, given free to teens at branch events Call firstDrop at a participating branch during the drive window (it began Jan 21 in 2025); check saclibrary.org/promWebsite
Purses, hats, scarves, belts, costume jewelry
This is covered. WEAVE takes handbags, jewelry and accessories; Zak's Closet takes jewelry; AMVETS and Goodwill take accessories. Pull out anything gold, silver or signed first and check it with an appraiser.
Shoes and boots
This is covered. Shoes with good soles go to Gathering Inn, Loaves & Fishes or Goodwill.
Suitcases and duffle bags
This is covered. Saint John's, Wind Youth Services and The Gathering Inn all ask for suitcases and duffles.
Uniforms, medals and flags from military service
See "What do I do with...?" above.
Wire and plastic hangersNo good donation home
Hangers are not recyclable in the blue cart. Many dry cleaners take back wire hangers; plastic ones can go to a thrift store with the clothes or in a free listing.
Women's business suits
Try Dress for Success Sacramento and the Assistance League (drop off at Fabulous Finds on Fulton for its Clothes for Careers program).
Linen closet (1)
Towels and washcloths
This is covered. Good towels go to shelters; worn ones are an ongoing need at the SPCA and county animal shelters.
Laundry (1)
Vacuum cleaners
Working vacuums can go to Goodwill or Love INC; dead ones are free e-waste at NARS, Kiefer or the Yolo landfill.
Home office (2)
Printer ink and toner cartridges
Empty or leftover cartridges are free to recycle at office supply stores, and some pay store credit. Unopened, in-date cartridges for a common printer can go on a free listing.
Staples (any Sacramento-area store) · Ink and toner cartridge recycling, no purchase needed; rewards members get store credit on a limited number per month Call firstBring to the front counterWebsite
Office Depot / OfficeMax · Ink and toner cartridge recycling with rewards Call firstBring to any storeWebsite
Best Buy · Ink and toner cartridges free at participating stores; three items per household per day Call firstBring to customer serviceWebsite
School and office supplies
Try Aggie Reuse (school and craft supplies) and the Broad Room free art closet. A teacher in the family or neighborhood is often the fastest home.
Garage (13)
Auto parts, old car batteries, metal shelving, scrap metal
Goodwill refuses auto parts and tires. Clean metal is free at the county sites or can be sold to a scrap yard; car batteries go back to any auto parts store (see "What do I do with...?" above).
Sacramento County NARS and Kiefer Landfill · Clean metal accepted freeLoad must hold only free itemsWebsite
Sims Metal, Sacramento · Steel, iron, aluminum, copper, brass and more Call first130 N 12th St, Sacramento(916) 444-3380Website
Bicycles
Try the Bicycle Kitchen, SABA and the Davis Bike Collective.
Boats, RVs, trailers, motorcycles
Try the PBS KVIE vehicle program above, and CapRadio's program takes the same range.
Cars (adds CapRadio)
Try PBS KVIE. CapRadio, Sacramento's public radio, runs a second free-towing program for cars, trucks, boats and RVs, running or not.
CapRadio Vehicle Donation Program · Free pickup of cars, trucks, trailers, boats, RVs, motorcycles, campers and more, running or not; sold to fund CapRadioCall or fill in the online form; a tow company picks up at no cost and hands you a receipt. Have a clear title.(877) 227-7277 (877-CARS-CPR)Website
Cribs, car seats, helmets
See "What do I do with...?" above.
Golf clubs, balls, bats and other sports gear
Newer golf clubs go to First Tee for its free youth programs. Other kids' sports gear can go to Goodwill (sporting goods) or Play It Again Sports.
First Tee - Greater Sacramento · Golf clubs 7 years old or newer, golf bags, 3-wheel push carts, golf ballsCall first, then drop off Monday to Friday at 3704 Marconi Ave, Suite 1, Sacramento(916) 486-6220Website
Sports2Kids (for the YMCA of Superior California) · New and used kids' sports equipment for YMCA youth programs; arranges pickup Call firstRequest pickup on the siteWebsite
Play It Again Sports, Fair Oaks · Buys quality used sports gear Call first8125 Greenback Ln, Fair Oaks(916) 725-8007Website
Hand tools and small power tools
This is covered. The North Sacramento Free Tool Library, Goodwill and the Foothills ReStore take tools.
Holiday decorations and string lights
Ornaments, wreaths and artificial trees in good shape go to thrift stores that take home decor (Goodwill, Acres of Hope, AMVETS); post them in October or November when people want them. Broken string lights are recyclable as metal and wire.
Goodwill and other thrift stores in the guide · Home decor and seasonal items in sellable shape Call firstDrop off at any donation doorWebsite
Sacramento Recycling and Transfer Station / Elder Creek Transfer Station · Holiday light recycling reported at 8491 Fruitridge Rd and 8642 Elder Creek Rd Call firstAsk at the gateWebsite
Lawn mowers, edgers and gas yard equipment
A working mower is easy to give away on a free listing. A dead gas mower needs its gas and oil drained (take those to HHW), then it is scrap metal; electric mowers are free at the county sites with the battery removed.
Sacramento County NARS and Kiefer Landfill free drop-off · Electric and battery lawn mowers free (battery out and taken to HHW separately); clean metal freeLoad must hold only free itemsWebsite
Sims Metal, Sacramento · Scrap metal yard; takes drained mowers and other steel, aluminum and copper, may pay by weight Call first130 N 12th St, Sacramento. Mon to Wed and Fri 7:30 am to 3 pm, Thu 7 am to 3 pm, Sat 7:30 am to noon(916) 444-3380Website
Free listing sites · Working mowers and trimmers are often claimed within a dayPost on Craigslist free, Nextdoor or Buy Nothing; the guide already covers theseWebsite
Old tires
Tires cannot go in the trash. Sacramento County's North Area Recovery Station takes up to four car or light-truck tires a day free, and charges $10 each for tires five through eight.
Sacramento County North Area Recovery Station · Passenger and light-truck tires: 1 to 4 per day free, 5 to 8 per day $10 each (2026 fees); commercial tires $30 each Call firstDrive in and stop at the scale house; cash, card or check(916) 875-5555Website
Tire shops · Most tire stores take old tires for a per-tire disposal fee Call firstCall ahead for the fee
Paint, cleaners, garden chemicals, antifreeze, gasoline, pool supplies
Try the free household hazardous waste sites and their reuse shelves.
Propane tanks, gas cans, ammunition, firearms, batteries, bulbs
See "What do I do with...?" above. Empty metal gas cans can also go to scrap metal (see auto parts below).
Used motor oil and oil filters
Never pour it out or put it in the trash. In the City of Sacramento you can book a free curbside pickup; anywhere in the region, auto parts stores that are state-certified collection centers take up to about 5 gallons free.
City of Sacramento curbside oil and filter pickup · Free pickup of used motor oil and filters on your recycling day, for City residentsCall 311 or (916) 264-5011 to book, at least 48 hours before your recycling day311 or (916) 264-5011Website
Certified Collection Centers (AutoZone, O'Reilly, Jiffy Lube, Pep Boys and others) · Take used oil from the public, usually up to 5 gallons at a time; some pay 40 cents a gallonUse the CalRecycle locator to find one near the houseWebsite
Household hazardous waste sites · Take oil, filters and antifreeze along with other HHWSee the HHW sites already in the guideWebsite
Yard (3)
Garden pots and potted plants
Try the free listing sites (garden pots are a common Nextdoor free post) and Snowline Thrift, which takes garden items. Some big-box garden centers take back plastic nursery pots, but that was not confirmed for Sacramento stores.
Patio furniture, BBQ grills, ladders
Clean patio furniture can go to the Greater Sacramento Habitat ReStore. Grills (propane tank removed and taken to HHW) and ladders are best posted free; a rusted grill is scrap metal.
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Sacramento ReStore · Accepts patio furniture in clean, sellable condition; reports say it does not take ladders Call firstCheck the residential donation page, then drop off or book pickupWebsite
Yolo County Central Landfill Big Blue Barn · Reuse drop-off for working equipment, tools and household items Call firstDrop at the Big Blue Barn at the landfill (already in the guide)Website
Post it free on Craigslist, Nextdoor or Buy Nothing; firewood is usually claimed fast. Keep it local, since moving firewood long distances spreads tree pests.
Spare room (1)
Treadmills, exercise bikes, weights
Big exercise machines are hard to donate because few charities pick them up. Sell or give them away online, or sell to Play It Again Sports; City of Sacramento residents can try a free appliance and e-waste pickup for a dead treadmill.
Play It Again Sports, Fair Oaks · Buys quality used fitness equipment, including treadmills, and sports gear for cash or trade Call first8125 Greenback Ln, Fair Oaks. Walk in, no appointment(916) 725-8007Website
City of Sacramento appliance and e-waste pickup · Two free appointments a year: up to two appliances and four e-waste items each; treadmill eligibility not confirmed Call firstCall 311 or use the Sac311 app311 or (916) 264-5011Website
Free listing sites · Treadmills show up often on Nextdoor free postsPost at $0; taker haulsWebsite
Every room (10)
Books, including children's books
This is covered. The Friends of the Sacramento Public Library Book Den takes most books, and Little Free Library boxes take a handful at a time. Encyclopedias and condensed books are listed separately below.
Broken housewares, chipped dishes, single socks and worn-out small itemsNo good donation home
Charities refuse anything broken or soiled, and dumping it on them costs them disposal fees. Torn or stained clothing can still go to Aggie Reuse; everything else is trash or a city or county bulky item pickup (see "What do I do with...?" above).
Encyclopedias, Reader's Digest condensed books, old textbooks and reference booksNo good donation home
Library friends groups usually refuse these (the Sac State Book Bin lists them as not accepted). Recycle them: soft-cover books go in the City blue cart, and for hardcovers tear off the covers and recycle the pages.
Model trains, track and layouts
Model train collections can have resale value, so get a rough idea from a hobby dealer first. To donate, the Sacramento Model Railroad Historical Society accepts locomotives, rolling stock and structures.
Sacramento Model Railroad Historical Society · Accepts model railroad items (locomotives, rolling stock, structures) and money; 501(c)(3)Contact before bringing anything. Clubhouse at 1990 Grand Ave, Sacramento(916) 927-3618Website
Records, CDs, DVDs and cassettes
This is covered. The Book Den takes records, cassettes, CDs, DVDs and VHS; Snowline takes DVDs, records and CDs. Bulk VHS is in the no-good-home list.
Sewing machines and sewing notions
This is covered. The American Sewing Guild Sacramento chapter takes fabric and notions and has a separate coordinator for sewing machines.
Stamp and coin collections
The Book Den takes stamps. Any real coin or stamp collection should be looked at by an appraiser or dealer first (see "What do I do with...?" above), because silver coins alone are often worth more than face value.
Toys, board games and jigsaw puzzles
Try the Book Den (games and puzzles) and Goodwill (toys). Complete jigsaw puzzles can also go to senior care homes through Puzzles to Remember.
Puzzles to Remember · Collects jigsaw puzzles for memory care and senior homes; lists Sacramento recipients such as ACC Care Center, Brookdale Greenhaven, Carlton Plaza of Sacramento and Sunrise of Sacramento Call firstEmail to be matched with a nearby recipient home, then drop off thereWebsite
VHS tapes and cassettes in bulkNo good donation home
The Book Den takes some VHS, but nobody wants hundreds of them. Digitize the home movies first (see "What do I do with...?" above), then put store-bought tapes in the trash; they cannot go in the blue cart. A paid mail-in option (GreenDisk) exists if you want them recycled.
GreenDisk mail-in recycling · Prepaid box for tapes and small electronics (about $120 per box reported) Call firstOrder a box onlineWebsite
Yarn, fabric, scrapbooking and art supplies
This is covered. ReCreate, the Broad Room free art closet, the Sewing Guild and Aggie Reuse all want these.
Our garage sale plan
You choose who it helps
When we run a garage sale for you, it is donation only. You pick the cause for the money and the home for what is left. Here is the shortlist we recommend.
Step 1 · The money
Pick a cause for the proceeds
Buyers pay what they want. Every dollar goes to the cause you choose, which keeps people generous.
Sacramento SPCAOur pickThis helps shelter pets. Our last estate sale gave every dollar here.Details
WEAVE Thrift and Donation CenterSurvivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and trafficking.Details
Opening Doors, Inc.Refugee and trafficking-survivor families setting up a first home.Details
Wind Youth ServicesHomeless and transition-age youth.Details
Usable things go to people who need them. These places take a bigger load or pick up from the house.
Love INC SacramentoVolunteer truck picks up furniture on Wednesdays for local families.Details
St. Vincent de Paul Society SacramentoSend photos and they schedule a furniture pickup.Details
WEAVE Thrift and Donation CenterPicks up large donations 4 days a week.Details
The Salvation Army Sacramento ARC stores and pickupScheduled pickup is free. Book online by ZIP.Details
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Sacramento ReStoreFurniture, appliances and leftover building materials.Details
Step 3 · Only then comes the true junk. We have a final load picked up at the house. Sacramento County residents also get one free bulky-item pickup a year (up to 5 cubic yards), and mattresses go free to Bye Bye Mattress instead of the landfill.
Nobody wants it?
Try these in order
Post it freeThe BuyNothing app, Freecycle, Nextdoor or Craigslist Free. Pickup is from the porch, so no driving is needed.
Match it to a specialistWheelchairs to a loan closet, towels to the animal shelter, fabric to the sewing guild.
Fix it firstA free repair cafe can get a lamp or toaster working again.
Reuse roomsHalf-used paint and cleaners go to the county reuse shelf for free.
Recycle the restMattresses, electronics and hazardous products have free recycling drop-offs.
Questions we hear
Common questions
Where can I donate furniture in Sacramento and have it picked up?
St. Vincent de Paul schedules furniture pickups after you send photos, (916) 972-1212. The Salvation Army books free pickups online at satruck.org or 1-800-SA-TRUCK. Love INC's volunteer truck picks up on Wednesdays for local families in need, (916) 383-3999. WEAVE picks up large donations four days a week, (916) 643-4606. Clean, pet-free and smoke-free pieces are the ones that get accepted.
Where can I donate a wheelchair, walker or shower chair in Sacramento?
Medical equipment loan closets take clean, working equipment and lend it free to people who need it: Easterseals Superior California, (916) 485-6711; St. Paul Catholic Church in Florin, (916) 381-5200; the Davis Senior Center, (530) 757-5696; and American Lutheran Church in Woodland, (530) 662-6338. Call first, since they take donations only when they have room.
Where can I donate a hospital bed?
Few places take them. First check whether the bed is rented: Medicare and hospice beds usually belong to the supplier and must go back. If your family owns it, ask the Parkinson Association of Northern California, (916) 357-6641, about its equipment exchange, or ask Easterseals.
Where can I donate unopened adult diapers?
Sacramento Loaves & Fishes takes adult diapers at its warehouse, 1351 North C Street, Monday to Friday 7am to 2:45pm (warehouse@sacloaves.org). Packages should be sealed.
Is Goodwill a nonprofit?
Yes. Goodwill Industries of Sacramento Valley & Northern Nevada is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that sells donations to fund job training. Its 2023 tax return shows revenue of $104.3 million and a highest reported salary of $512,627 for its CEO.
Is the Salvation Army a nonprofit?
Yes. The Salvation Army is a church, so it does not file the public Form 990 that shows salaries. Its thrift stores fund its adult rehabilitation programs.
Where do I take old prescription medications?
Use a free take-back kiosk at a pharmacy or police station, or order a free mail-back envelope. Find the nearest kiosk through MED-Project, (844) 633-7765. Never flush medications.
What do I do with half-used paint and cleaners?
Take them free to a household hazardous waste site. Sacramento County's North Area Recovery Station and the City of Sacramento's Fruitridge Road site both put usable, labeled products on a free reuse shelf for others.
Will anyone take a used mattress?
Most charities will not. Bye Bye Mattress recycles mattresses and box springs for free at drop-off sites in Sacramento, including 8491 Fruitridge Road, so they do not go to the landfill.
Can I donate a car to CapRadio?
Yes. CapRadio's vehicle donation program takes cars, trucks, RVs, boats and more, running or not, with free towing. Call (877) 227-7277 (877-CARS-CPR). You need a clear title.
Are my donations tax deductible?
Donations to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit usually are, if you keep a receipt. The IRS requires Form 8283 when noncash gifts top $500 for the year and an appraisal over $5,000. Donations to businesses, apps or some veterans groups are not. Ask your tax preparer, especially when an estate is donating.
Have us handle it
Clearing a house is a lot. You don’t have to sort it alone.
Tell us about the house and what’s in it. We’ll help you decide what goes where, run a donation-only garage sale, and line up the pickups and the final load, so the home is ready to sell.
See something out of date on the map? Tell us and we’ll check it.
Places on this map were checked in October 2026. Hours, needs and policies change, so call before you go. This page is general information, not tax or legal advice. Ask your tax preparer about deductions, especially when an estate is donating.
It starts with you, not the house
Tell us what’s changing in your life. The house and the numbers fit around that.
