Where to Donate Craft Supplies
Have you got a surplus of buttons, beads, fabric, craft paint, or yarn cluttering up your closet?  You can donate craft supplies to one of the numerous organizations which regularly utilize such items as part of their program and help someone in need.  Your donation could be used to promote the arts and art therapy among underprivileged youth, provide much needed warmth to a newborn, or offer comfort to patients with breast cancer or Alzheimer’s. 

Here is a sample of organizations with a continuing need for arts and crafts supplies. Organizations are listed alphabetically. The order in which organizations are listed does not represent any sort of hierarchy.  

Look for Local Organizations in Need

It can be rewarding to find ways to give within your own community.  Local organizations or groups that are likely to appreciate a donation of craft supplies include:
  • preschools
  • daycare centers
  • youth centers
  • Boy Scout or Girl Scout troops
  • Boys' and Girls' Clubs
  • school teachers (particularly elementary teachers or art teachers)
  • church nurseries

​I recommend calling first before taking a donation to a local organization such as those listed above. Make sure they need/want what you have to offer. 

Charities That Accept Craft Donations

The Dreaming Zebra Foundation provides access to art and music supplies for thousands of children, schools, art therapy programs, and community organizations throughout the United States.  If you live in the Portland, Oregon area, you can donate craft supplies at a drop-off location or arrange for pick up.  Otherwise, you can mail your donation.  Click on the link above to see their wish list of most wanted craft items. Note: the foundation also accepts donations of musical instruments. 
This volunteer force knits or crochets hats, mittens, scarves, sweaters, Afghans, baby booties, layette sets, and Christmas stockings for needy children around the country.  They are looking for donations of yarn, knitting needles, and books on knitting.  ​
The Mother Bear Project has the very specific goal of providing hand knitted or crocheted bears to children with HIV Aids in developing countries.  They accept donations of yarn, knitting needles, and PolyFil.  ​
If you have a surplus of craft supplies you can donate to any one of the organizations listed here. If you are a crafty person, you might even become a volunteer!  Either way, I know your donation will be greatly appreciated, and you can have the doubly satisfying experience of donating and decluttering at the same time!

Disclaimer
Please note that the presence of an organization on this list does not constitute a recommendation on my part, nor do I represent any of these organizations in any way.
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