As we approach November, the weather outside becomes colder and colder. Soon, our year’s sweater weather will come to an end, and the seasons will bring forth much harsher weather conditions. Many people are privileged enough to be able to wrap themselves in warmer clothes, but what about the homeless people on the streets?

New York City alone is where around 14% of the nation’s homeless people reside. To put into perspective, that is around 76,501 people in the city alone, and 421,400 homeless people in the entire nation. There is always people in need, so there is no reason to not donate the clothes that are just gathering dust in your closet.

In a society where consumerism and fast fashion are prevalent, why not donate clothes to those who need them? As the rising population issue takes over New York City, many homeless people who resided in shelters and hotels as refuge are now left on the cold pavement, leaving them outside at a time where they need shelter more than ever. By donating clothes, you can both clear your closet out, and help people in need. Even winter coats that you wore as a child would help, as many children are left out on the streets as well. Children take up around 38.76% of the homeless population of New York, and are often even more vulnerable to the cold than adults.

So—here begs the question: how exactly do you donate your excess clothing?

How to Donate Clothes:

First, look through your closet, and pick out clothes you no longer want or need. Whether it be something out of style, or something that no longer fits you, it still goes into the pile.

Next, sort through your pile and see which clothes are appropriate to donate. Some important items during this season include hats, scarves, sweaters, sweatpants, and boots; but you can still donate clothes that aren’t in season, such as t-shirts, shorts, and sandals. Some clothes you should avoid donating, however, are tattered pieces that are hanging on by threads, and used underwear.

Now, here comes the tricky part: finding places to donate clothes. Fret not, because there is more than one way to go about this!

In some areas, there are clothing bins just out in the open. They are often out in near gas stations, or churches. You can see where to put which kind of clothing by the labels on the bins. You can also donate to places such as Goodwill, or directly to homeless shelters. Some places even let you ship your clothing out! It all depends on what is most convenient in your area, and how big your donation pile is.

All in all, there are many benefits to donating items you no longer need. Not only are you helping someone in need out, but you are also able to get your closet ready for items that are currently in style. You don’t need to donate just clothes either! As we approach much colder weather, we also find ourselves getting closer to Thanksgiving and Christmas. Those holidays are some of the most important holidays of the year when it comes to recognizing the things we care and are thankful for. Donating clothes is just the beginning of giving help to those who need it.