The combination of growing children and apartment living often equals that claustrophobic feeling of “I have too much stuff!” Your bubs turn into toddlers before you know it and so, the baby gear needs to be purged to make room for the “big kid” kit; the little ones become tweens and so, out with the Barbie and Lego and in with the chapter books and sports equipment; you are downsizing or upgrading your pad and either way none of your furniture seems to fit. Forget about all the barely-worn clothes and shoes! But what to do with all this “stuff”? It would be a shame not to put it to good use. Even in Hong Kong there are many who go without and there is a great need for gently used items. Hong Kong Moms have suggested the following places that welcome donations:
Crossroads (crossroads.org.hk; 2984 9309)
Needs: Home furniture, office/school furniture, household goods, toys, clothes, and electrical items
Info: They use an online delivery form; and ask that items be delivered by the donor or a prearranged transport service
St. James Settlement (sjs.org.hk; 2574 5201)
Needs: Furniture, electrical appliances, second-hand ladies clothes, books
Info: Call the specific number for each donation category to arrange pick-up or delivery
Ronald McDonald House (rmh.org.hk; 2947 8778)
Needs: This organization has a “Wish List” which currently includes rice, healthy food, household goods, cookware and office supplies
Info: Call before making a donation
Furniture: 8226 9211
Electrical: 2795 7038
Clothes: 28313204
Books: 2835 4368
Pathfinders (pathfinders.org.hk; 5500 5486
Needs: Newborn and children’s clothes, baby blankets, baby carriers, slings and wraps, diapers, pushchairs, formula, maternity clothes
Info: They ask that items are dry, clean and in good condition. Your contact details should be included in each donation bag or box.
Drop off Locations
PathFinders Office: Unit 2D, Worldwide Centre, 123 Tung Chau Street, Tai Kok Tsui, Kowloon
Volunteer’s Home: 8/F Horizon Mansion, 104 MacDonnell Road, Mid-Levels (Leave with doorman at anytime)
Christian Action (christian-action.org.hk; 2456 2220)
Needs: Clothes, accessories, stationary, books, toys, baby items, new bedding, carpets, electrical items and small household appliances
Info: Call to arrange pick-up (available for building with elevator access); $60 will be charged for a pick-up of less than three bags.
Salvation Army (salvationarmy.org.hk; 2332 4433)
Needs: Clothes, electrical home appliances, office equipment, toys, stationary, books
Info: Donations accepted at Salvation Army stores and recycling bins around Hong Kong. Pick-up can also be arranged for large quantities by calling.
Vision First (vfnow.org; WhatsApp: 9370 2039)
Needs: Blankets and bedding, winter clothes, baby gear, diapers, formula, carriers, shoes, stationary, toiletries, phones, cameras, computers, art supplies, dry food, kitchen appliances
Info: Donations must be delivered to the Vision First office in Sheung Wan; email info@vfnow.org to arrange.
Other resources: