How to Donate Clothes and Toys This Giving Tuesday
Schedule clothing and toy donations for Dec. 1 and match new or used items to the right drop-off.
To donate clothes and toys this Giving Tuesday, take gently used clothing to a thrift drop-off and give new, unwrapped toys through a holiday toy program. GivingTuesday 2026 falls on Tuesday, December 1, 2026, the Tuesday after U.S. Thanksgiving, according to GivingTuesday in its myths explainer.
GivingTuesday is a shared day that puts the focus on giving. Sorting by condition helps here because new toys and used goods go to different places.
Verification note: Program terms and availability can change. This page was checked against linked sources on November 05, 2026.
Where to drop off used clothes?
The Salvation Army USA operates more than 2,500 U.S. drop-off locations for gently used clothing, toys, and household goods. Donors enter a ZIP code to find nearby clothing, furniture, and goods options, as explained on the Salvation Army drop-off page.
Pack clothing in clean bags and keep shoes paired. Check posted hours before you drive over.
How to give new toys for the holidays?
The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation says donors can find their local campaign through the national site. They can then place a new unwrapped toy in a collection box, host a drive, volunteer, or give money, as listed on the Toys for Tots national site. Choose a new toy and leave it unwrapped.
Keep the packaging intact so staff can sort it fast. For a quick trip, use these steps: If you want to do more, ask about hosting a small drive. A workplace bin can collect several toys in one week.
- Buy a new toy and keep it unwrapped.
- Find the nearest collection box for your local campaign.
- Drop it off early and ask staff about volunteer needs.
What if your toys are gently used?
The Franklin County Toys for Tots campaign notes that Toys for Tots does not accept used toys. Donors with gently used toys should use Goodwill, Salvation Army thrift stores, or another local charity and meet early-to-mid-December local deadlines, as stated in the Franklin County Toys for Tots guidance. Keep new and used toys in separate bags.
Label the used bag so drop-off staff can sort fast.
How to pack for a fast drop-off?
Wash clothing and match shoes into pairs. Fold items so staff can see their condition. Leave new toys unwrapped and keep small parts sealed.
Bring donations earlier in the day when counters are less busy.