We’re so grateful for the incredible generosity of our community! Every donated item helps families feel supported and cared for. To ensure the health, safety, and dignity of those we serve, we can only accept items that are new, unused, and in good condition.
For hygiene and safety reasons, we’re unable to accept certain items as gifts-in-kind. Please review the list below before donating:
Personal Use Items
- Used undergarments (bras, underwear, socks, shapewear)
- Used bathing suits or swim trunks
- Open or partially used toiletries (shampoo, soap, toothpaste, lotion, deodorant, etc.)
- Open or expired cosmetics or makeup
- Used razors, electric shavers, or hair removal tools
- Used toothbrushes, floss, or dental hygiene items
- Opened packages of diapers, wipes, or feminine hygiene products
Household & Bedding
- Used pillows or pillowcases
- Used mattresses or mattress toppers
- Used comforters, duvets, or bed linens (unless freshly laundered and from smoke-free/pet-free homes)
- Used towels or washcloths (unless clearly new and unused)
Baby & Child Items
- Used bottles, nipples, breast pumps, or pacifiers
- Used car seats, strollers, or highchairs (due to hygiene and safety recall risks)
- Used plush toys or stuffed animals (especially if not washable)
Medical or Health-Related Items
- Open or expired medications, supplements, or vitamins
- Used mobility or medical equipment (walkers, braces, crutches, etc.) without sanitation certification
- Used medical supplies like bandages, gauze, or personal protective equipment
Clothing & Footwear
- Soiled, torn, or mouldy clothing
- Footwear with worn-insoles or strong odours
- Items from homes exposed to bedbugs, smoke, or mildew
Food Items
- Homemade or home-canned foods
- Open or partially used food items
- Expired food products
- Perishable foods requiring refrigeration or freezing
- Food without clear ingredient or allergen labelling
- Bulk items not in their original packaging
Please note that Closer to Home requires at least 7 business days to coordinate acceptance of in-kind donations due to logistics and limited storage in our facilities. In some cases, we are unable to accept gifts-in-kind for these reasons.
Thank you for being an integral part of the Closer to Home donor community. Your support drives the positive transformations we aim to achieve, and we are immensely grateful for your continued partnership.