In keeping with our mission statement the first choice of donated items is to serve victims of domestic or sexual violence. If someone is going from shelter to a new home, victims get first dibs. But you have to realize that we are in a pocket area of poverty. The promise held by all that is offered in Knoxville is not easily realized by many people around where we are.
If someone in our zip code is in need (Knox, Jefferson or Sevier) they can get needed items from the stock we have on hand. We do reserve the right to impose a $20 per person maximum value on household items or clothing. However, all needs are met on a case-by-case basis.
The next option is to actually sell the items in our thrift shop (or possibly eBay). We don't charge much. In fact, shoppers here love that our prices are lower than in Knoxville or Jefferson City. Our neighbors love it because they don't have to drive to Knoxville or Jefferson City. Plus, our landlord stays happy since sales enable us to pay the rent. It's an all around good situation.
Finally, some items given to us will be sold to a bulk recycler at a price per pound. This helps us pay our rent (always a good thing). And, it provides affordable clothing in third world countries. Places like Haiti, Africa, Belize, all have received bulk shipments of used clothing from our little corner of the world.
We are exploring the possibility of recycling other things too. Cardboard, newspapers, metals and cans top the list. Some items may be refinished or refurbished as part of an upcoming recycling effort. Look for more information about these items to come in a later blog post.
So if you're asking what we accept the short answer is "Yes!" Bring it on!
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