 Hairstyles are getting longer as people delay cuts due to COVID-19 so you may actually be dipping back into your hair accessories. If you aren't, or like me, you are and are also noticing some really outdated stuff that you can't give away but don't want to throw away, here are some great hacks for you to try. Snap or Spring Clips Chip clips I really don't like buying cheap plastic anything. This is especially true for something that doesn't last and there are a million alternatives for, including chip clips. Hair clips are one great way to re-use stuff you have laying around to do the job, and they are free. You can also use lots of other items to keep bags and boxes secure. Rubber bands and office binder clips are two of my favorites. Keep Your Washer from Stealing SocksJust clip them together at the top with a strong clip and then wash. Keep them in a pouch on your hamper to keep socks together from the beginning. It's a great way to use a little cloth bag you might have - just tie it to the top and put a few clips in it. Replace them when your socks have successfully made it out of the wash together. Be careful - some can get rusty over time, but at least they'll have had a second, and very useful, life. 13. Use a Snap Clip as a Screwdriver If you're really in a pinch and need to unscrew something quickly, a snap clip can work. It will only be effective in a slot screw, and it will take longer than using a regular screwdriver, but it's definitely a MacGyver solution to a problem. They even make snap clips with screwdriver heads now! 9. No Stapler? Use a Snap Clip If you're looking to keep a bunch of papers together and don't have any binder clips or a stapler handy, a snap clip will do the job. It can comfortably hold around 10 sheets of paper together, and if you're handing in a school paper, it can be a fun way to jazz up the presentation. Good Toothpaste Tube HygieneJust like putting toilet paper on the 'right' way, keeping toothpaste tubes neat can be a worthwhile relationship aid. There are quite a few devices that are created for the purpose, many of which I've tried and not loved. This is an easy, DIY, free, reuse friendly way to keep everyone a little bit happier. 11. Create a Gift-Card ClipLooking for a unique way to attach a gift card to a present? Use a brightly colored snap clip, and simply snap it onto the gift card and the ribbon. Guaranteed, no one else will secure his or her gift card in this way, and it can also be an added gift if it's particularly creative or interesting. Especially if it is a hair-related gift or gift card. You could even decorate it in matching colors or theme. Claw ClipsKeep Wet Stuff from Getting Gross in the KitchenDish cloths, Sponges, even reused plastic bags, and beeswax wraps can be tough to dry. Take a clip that is the right size for the job and you can either clip it or hang it from something nearby. Keep Wet Stuff from Getting Gross in the Bathroom Same idea - use large clips over your shower rod to give you extra space to dry towels, swimwear, pet toys you've just cleaned, or anything else you want to drip dry quickly. Hands-Free Towel 10. if you're in the locker room at the gym and want a way to keep your towel from falling down, secure it with a small jaw clip, like this. It's a quick, easy solution, and it works with a wide variety of jaw clips. Tame Tangles of Cords To Edit: We all have a bunch of cords, wires, and cables hanging around at the home entertainment center or computer desk. You can use jaw clips or large barrettes to keep them looking much more neat and tidy. Use several small clips along the length of the wires, or if you have them, a couple of the much bigger clips. As they come in a wide variety of colors, you can even use clips that coordinate with the color of the wires, including white, black, yellow, or blue. DIY DoorstopFor doors that you need to make sure stay open, rather than buy something new, you can use this You can buy finger-pinch guards, but large jaw clips with string springs can also do this job. Place it at the top of the door, out of reach of the kids. The jaw clip will hold itself in place, and will stop the door from being closed all the way. (You'll need to run a few tests first. If the jaw clip isn't strong enough, it will fly off on the first try. 12. Create a Makeshift ClipboardDon't have a clipboard handy, or one of those binder clips? Well, you can make a clipboard using a jaw clip and something like a thin, hardcover book, or even some sturdy cardboard. Lay the paper down, attach the jaw clip, and slide the pen inside. Simple. Or if you need to keep papers from blowing away. Or outdoor party tablecloths Clip Glasses to Your VisorIf you have an older car without a compartment for glasses, or you need more than one, this is a handy hack. You can a couple of different ways. You can use a claw clip to clip the glasses anywhere along the edge, or use two binders around the visor. You can use one, but two keep your glasses more secure. You can use fluffy or bright ones for a little fun flair, or keep it simple. Bobby PinsBookmarks that Don't MarkYou like to have crisp pages, or maybe you are borrowing a book, you don't want to dog-ear it. Just keep a few bobby pins handy in your nightstand or near you favorite reading nook. Bobby pins take up almost no room and keep the pages looking new when you don't have your favorite bookmark nearby. 5. Banana Clips4. Prevent Tangled Necklaces My niece has a lot of necklaces, and she told me about this neat little trick. Banana clips come in many varieties, but the ones with teeth spaced apart widely are great for hanging necklaces over. Hang one over each tooth, then close and fasten the banana clip, and place it in a drawer. No more tangles, knots, and other necklace annoyances. CombsBandsReduce - Zero Waste Hair Ties & Alternatives
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  Stained couches, buttonless or torn shirts, a game with missing pieces, a coat with worn elbows, a lamp that just needs a little glue to hold it together... Most people have great intentions when they donate their stuff but based on many conversations I've had with organizations that have received all kinds of things like these they don't want, don't need, and ends up being a burden on their strained resources, there definitely seem to be wrong ways to donate. Most of the time, it is unintentional. We think we're donating stuff that is 'good enough' and the reality is that most of us unintentionally give stuff that goes right into the trash - either because we didn't check the condition closely enough, or get the right stuff to the right place where it can be used. Fortunately, it is avoidable if we follow some simple guidelines. How can you be sure you aren't unintentionally |
 | We are honored to support and magnify the work of nonprofits and community businesses in one small way through the prizes & drawings for participants. For example, Cookie Cart, even as their buildings were boarded up in North Minneapolis and East St Paul, continued to serve youth and make cookies, and the students even came together to paint the boards with heartfelt memorials to George Floyd and of hope for change. |
Prize drawings include gift cards from Afro Deli - they have provided free meals to neighbors in need, and also Hope Breakfast Bar - they have been supplying food to those in need at their store as well as for the pop-up food shelves.
There is much more work to be done and many changes ahead. As we implement these changes, we must remain aware and connected to the continued injustices and inequalities our BIPOC neighbors endure. We are committed to creating inclusivity and diversity in our organization and communities not only during this critical time but as we continue forward together on the road toward an equitable future for everyone.
There is much more work to be done and many changes ahead. As we implement these changes, we must remain aware and connected to the continued injustices and inequalities our BIPOC neighbors endure. We are committed to creating inclusivity and diversity in our organization and communities not only during this critical time but as we continue forward together on the road toward an equitable future for everyone.
We are in the right place at the right time.
Just months ago, we couldn't have anticipated what the coronavirus pandemic would bring. The need for PPE, masks, supplies, food and daily necessities grew exponentially. Donate Good Stuff was ready to help and we already had the infrastructure in place.
We mobilized, and partnered, and gathered volunteers. In just weeks, we created the largest comprehensive donation-focused response in the US to connect donors and organizations in need. And we will continue our work, responding to the economic as well as the public health crisis.
We mobilized, and partnered, and gathered volunteers. In just weeks, we created the largest comprehensive donation-focused response in the US to connect donors and organizations in need. And we will continue our work, responding to the economic as well as the public health crisis.
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Stand with us
This work takes more than volunteers. Will you partner with us at this critical time? We run on a shoestring so most of our budget goes directly toward making Donate Good Stuff a trusted and useful resource. Your financial support helps to run the technology behind the scenes and to get the word out across the country to get as many supplies and donations to where they are needed most.
This week is #GiveatHomeMN and today is Giving Tuesday. We also just announced transition of our 5K fundraiser to virtual - so you can participate from anywhere.
This week is #GiveatHomeMN and today is Giving Tuesday. We also just announced transition of our 5K fundraiser to virtual - so you can participate from anywhere.
Thank You - We couldn't do it without you.
They are on the front lines, often transporting people with COVID-19.
Saint Paul firefighters and EMT’s may have sufficient PPE to do their job, but need hand made or non-medical grade masks to wear around the station or at home. Every day they are transferring COVID-19 patients to Saint Paul hospitals and worry that they could be bringing it home and infecting their families and loved ones.
Emergency medical services (EMS) play a vital role in responding to requests to assistance, triaging patients, and providing emergency medical treatment and transport to people who are ill. However, unlike patient care in the controlled environment of a healthcare facility, care and transportation by EMS present unique challenges because of the nature of the setting - enclosed space during transport, frequent need for rapid medical decision-making and interventions with limited information.
The St. Paul Fire Foundation Executive Director, Cristine Shapira, reached out on their behalf. SPFF is a 501c3 registered non-profit organization that is dedicated to supporting the firefighters on the Saint Paul Fire Department.
She said these masks would protect them from infecting others while at work, and just as importantly, at home. She passed along that they are so grateful for the public wanting to assist us during this unprecedented and critical time.
She said these masks would protect them from infecting others while at work, and just as importantly, at home. She passed along that they are so grateful for the public wanting to assist us during this unprecedented and critical time.
Donations will be distributed directly to the men and women of the Saint Paul Fire Department.
All of the needed items are listed on DonateGoodStuff.org
· N95 respirator masks
· Disinfectant – cavicide or similar
· Cleaning wipes with bleach (i.e. Clorox)
· Hand sanitizer swabs (Dacron, Rayon, Nylon)
· Safety Glasses\gowns
· Face shields
· Thermometers – Infra red probe covers
If you can help, reach out to the SPFF: spff@comcast.net
All of the needed items are listed on DonateGoodStuff.org
· N95 respirator masks
· Disinfectant – cavicide or similar
· Cleaning wipes with bleach (i.e. Clorox)
· Hand sanitizer swabs (Dacron, Rayon, Nylon)
· Safety Glasses\gowns
· Face shields
· Thermometers – Infra red probe covers
If you can help, reach out to the SPFF: spff@comcast.net
Mask-Making Week in Minnesota
The Governor and Lieutenant Governor launched a "Homemade Mask Week" Drive April 20-25th. This drive will help those who are most vulnerable and at risk, especially those working and residing in congregate living like homeless and domestic violence shelters, long-term care facilities, and other locations where people are at higher risk from COVID-19.
Fire stations around Minnesota will be collecting masks on Saturday, April 25th from 10am until 2pm. See the announcement HERE. All 775 fire departments in the state will be participating and will then then deliver the masks to local organizations.
DonateGoodStuff.org will aid in this effort as a resource for the fire fighters delivering, for facilities and organizations where the masks are needed. If you represent an organization needing homemade mask donations, click HERE TO REGISTER free before Saturday.
Can't make it Saturday?
You can donate home-sewn masks any time before or after the drive on Saturday, directly to organizations and facilities. Find a map of all locations in Minnesota HERE or search near you HERE.
You can donate home-sewn masks any time before or after the drive on Saturday, directly to organizations and facilities. Find a map of all locations in Minnesota HERE or search near you HERE.
Want to help in other ways?
Many other donations are needed during this time, from food and hygiene items, to creative activities items for seniors and children. Find out what is needed near you HERE
Many other donations are needed during this time, from food and hygiene items, to creative activities items for seniors and children. Find out what is needed near you HERE
Urgent needs
Donate Good Stuff added over 2,000 donation sites over the past two days across Minnesota and the US from all kinds of medical providers & community-facing workers. These requests give a view into the situation people are faced with right now. They are full of urgency and gratitude:
- "Nurses only get one mask/day and they do trauma surgery" - Hospital
- "We were just told today we are only allowed 1 mask per week and we no longer can give out masks to patients" - Urgent Care Doctor
- "We are grateful for any amount given..for staff providing around the clock care"
- "We are in desperate need of masks" - Fire Department
- "We cannot get masks. Most of our residents are 85-110" - Assisted Living
- "We are down to 5 N95s" - VA Medical Center
- "I have 5 masks left and have not been able to get any more" - Pharmacy
- "We are trying to remain open and care for essential workers children." - Daycare
People respond
It is uplifting and inspirational to see how quickly people are coming together all over the country to respond - providing materials, sewing, and logistics to get things where they are most needed.
Right here in Minnesota, we have the Twin Cities Mask Makers, and Treadle Yard Goods has provided free kits. Across the nation, there are armies of people mobilizing - #MillionMaskMayday, #MillionMaskChallenge among others.
Right here in Minnesota, we have the Twin Cities Mask Makers, and Treadle Yard Goods has provided free kits. Across the nation, there are armies of people mobilizing - #MillionMaskMayday, #MillionMaskChallenge among others.
Many ways to help
Mask-making is not the only way people are responding. Helping neighbors in need, reaching out to those who are isolated, and sharing beautiful, funny, & inspirational posts to keep anxiety at bay are all important contributions to the effort.
There is no question COVID-19 is serious. And it's true, we are short on supplies. But we can choose to focus on the difference we CAN make - staying at home, social distancing, washing hands, disinfecting high-touch surfaces, getting supplies out as quickly as we can, and keeping each other's spirits up in all kinds of creative ways.
We'll get through this together.
There is no question COVID-19 is serious. And it's true, we are short on supplies. But we can choose to focus on the difference we CAN make - staying at home, social distancing, washing hands, disinfecting high-touch surfaces, getting supplies out as quickly as we can, and keeping each other's spirits up in all kinds of creative ways.
We'll get through this together.
Here are 9 items to consider donating as you de-clutter
#1 Toilet Paper
Many organizations collect toilet paper and other basic necessities to help people who may be financially struggling. Programs like Eastside Elders appreciate these common items that can be expensive for people on a limited income. Search here to find a non-profit near you that is in need of extra basics you might have laying around.
#2 Car Seats
You might not realize the benefit a car seat can be to a parent or guardian taking care of babies and young children! Consider donating car seats, strollers, etc to a safety-net program for families like Sharing and Caring Hands. Before you donate items that another family will rely on, be sure they are still safe and double-check the organization's current requests and details for accepting donations.
#3 Small Travel Size Toiletries
So many people travel and typically pick up small toiletries, which then end up sitting for months or years on your shelf and then end up in the trash. Instead of letting those travel size toiletries sit or throwing them out, consider donating them to a shelter for youth like Youth Link MN or other shelters near you. For hygiene sake, donate only the unopened ones.
#4 Vehicles
When your car is no longer serving your needs don't just get send it to the junkyard! Many organizations need vehicles to transport those in need or to give a leg-up to someone who needs it. Did you know you can donate vehicles to places that actually fix them and also use them to help others such as Newgate School?
Did you know that many organizations have car donation programs (most use a third party to auction your car to help fund services. Be aware that some may not provide much benefit to the nonprofit although it can be a better bet than the junkyard)
Also consider donating to local technical schools or high schools with mechanic or automotive shop classes.
Did you know that many organizations have car donation programs (most use a third party to auction your car to help fund services. Be aware that some may not provide much benefit to the nonprofit although it can be a better bet than the junkyard)
Also consider donating to local technical schools or high schools with mechanic or automotive shop classes.
#5 Bedding and Sheets
Bedding and blankets are important in a disaster, emergency, and people in need. This is true year-round, and especially during the colder months.
Consider donating bedding, sheets, linens, and blankets with lots of life still in them to transitional housing programs like Haven Housing, emergency programs like STEP (Saint Louis Park Emergency Program), or programs serving new neighbors like MORE.
Consider donating bedding, sheets, linens, and blankets with lots of life still in them to transitional housing programs like Haven Housing, emergency programs like STEP (Saint Louis Park Emergency Program), or programs serving new neighbors like MORE.
#6 Clean Plastic Shopping Bags
So many people just throw away plastics bags, but you can use them to help pets! Not only can you provide resources for animals, when you donate them to this Animal Humane Society, you also can help keep plastic out of landfills and the ocean.
If you can't find a place to donate them near you (note: in most cities you cannot include them with regular recycling), stores throughout the US will collect & recycle them like Target, Cub and also Goodwill. Find a convenient drop-off near you HERE.
If you can't find a place to donate them near you (note: in most cities you cannot include them with regular recycling), stores throughout the US will collect & recycle them like Target, Cub and also Goodwill. Find a convenient drop-off near you HERE.
#7 Shoes
Footwear is essential for those living in Minnesota! We rely on these not only in everyday life and especially in winter! When your shoes no longer serve their purpose in your life consider donating them to the Shoe Away Hunger program where they can be given a new life (drop off sites at all Schuler Shoes), or nonprofit resellers such as The Arc where profit from the sale of your items helps individuals with developmental and intellectual differences.
#8 Baby Formula
If you have gotten free formula in a brand that you don't use, or find you have extra once your little one no longer needs it, consider donating it (unopened and not expired). Formula can be expensive and it is such a basic item for many babies, it is truly appreciated by places serving mothers and children like North Side Life Care Center.
#9 Newspaper
If you get a newspaper to read or just delivered to your home, you can do better than just tossing them when you are done. Animal shelters and rescues, like MN Pocket Pet Rescue, will appreciate your old newspapers to use as bedding for cuddly critters.
Find these and more items you can donate at DonateGoodStuff.org!
Ready to refresh your Spring and Summer wardrobe?
Swap out those things in your closet that just never fit you, or your life, quite right for some new pieces to update your look for the season! You are sure to find some bargains (Does it get better than free??)
Details
Where: Como Lake Pavilion - 1360 Lexington Pkwy N, St. Paul, MN 55103
(above Spring Cafe)
When: 1-3 pm.
How: Bring your "excellent used condition" clothing & accessories.
After a quick check-in, you'll place your items on tables organized by type of garment or accessories. Then shop!
What can I bring?
- Spring & Summer clothes & accessories (winter is sooo over)
- Stuff in "excellent used condition".
That means no repairs needed, no missing buttons, worn areas, faded t-shirts, broken zippers, stains, smells. Keeping it classy makes it fun and rewarding for everyone.
- Adult only clothes & accessories (no children's this time)
- Casual & dressy, shoes & belts, jewelry & purses, vintage & formal wear & jeans, maternity, and athletic wear are all welcome.
Details
Where: Como Lake Pavilion - 1360 Lexington Pkwy N, St. Paul, MN 55103
(above Spring Cafe)
When: 1-3 pm.
How: Bring your "excellent used condition" clothing & accessories.
After a quick check-in, you'll place your items on tables organized by type of garment or accessories. Then shop!
What can I bring?
- Spring & Summer clothes & accessories (winter is sooo over)
- Stuff in "excellent used condition".
That means no repairs needed, no missing buttons, worn areas, faded t-shirts, broken zippers, stains, smells. Keeping it classy makes it fun and rewarding for everyone.
- Adult only clothes & accessories (no children's this time)
- Casual & dressy, shoes & belts, jewelry & purses, vintage & formal wear & jeans, maternity, and athletic wear are all welcome.
Q & A
Is there a limit on how much I can bring to the swap?
No, as long as everything is in Excellent Used Condition, there is no limit.
Is this swap for men and women?
Yes - This sale is open to all gender styles.
What happens to the items that are left?
We will sort them to be donated to local charities.
Is there a limit on how much I can take?
No, however, it is a community swap with neighbors so courtesy is key.
Want to help?
Is there a limit on how much I can bring to the swap?
No, as long as everything is in Excellent Used Condition, there is no limit.
Is this swap for men and women?
Yes - This sale is open to all gender styles.
What happens to the items that are left?
We will sort them to be donated to local charities.
Is there a limit on how much I can take?
No, however, it is a community swap with neighbors so courtesy is key.
Want to help?
Does this sound like you......
You have stuff you no longer need and it's cluttering your space.
A lot of it is still good and could be used, if you could only find out what and who.
If it does, you only need two things to get you started:
1) The Declutter & Do Good Checklist will help you go through your things to find the hidden treasures most needed by organizations.
2) DonateGoodStuff.org shows you specific local organizations that need what you have.
The most important step is to take a step, even if it is a small one.
Start with just one area and go through the checklist below for that space. Set all items you no longer need aside in reused bags or boxes. Search for specific items or categories of items on DonateGoodStuff.org where you will find where and when to bring your items.
You have stuff you no longer need and it's cluttering your space.
A lot of it is still good and could be used, if you could only find out what and who.
If it does, you only need two things to get you started:
1) The Declutter & Do Good Checklist will help you go through your things to find the hidden treasures most needed by organizations.
2) DonateGoodStuff.org shows you specific local organizations that need what you have.
The most important step is to take a step, even if it is a small one.
Start with just one area and go through the checklist below for that space. Set all items you no longer need aside in reused bags or boxes. Search for specific items or categories of items on DonateGoodStuff.org where you will find where and when to bring your items.
The best way to stay on top of stuff is to make decluttering a regular habit. Try starting each month or season out by doing one room or area. This will keep your space fresh, and ensures that stuff you don't need gets used. It is good for the community and your carbon footprint.
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