Here’s some bright light to shed on ‘houseless’ vs ‘homeless’ – a topic that has been in the forefront for many of us. Do Good continues to shine as an example of people truly caring to make a difference. Trust that whatever donations you make be it clothes, furniture, finances or time are put to good use. And having spent years helping folks understand what home really means, I totally connect with their choice of terms. I think you will, too. “Not everyone has housing, but every person can experience home.” Read more here.
Here’s an updated wish list for one of my top suggestions for donating and supporting a great cause at the same time. If you’re in the PDX area, please keep them in mind when doing your Fall clearing. Click here to find out more about the organization, locations and activities. Thank you! And cheers to getting clear!
My Feb Enews featured a shout out to Do Good shelters. The Portland agency continues to serve as a major source of housing and resources for the community. Here’s an update of their specific needs. Those of you in the PDX area, please keep them in mind as you clear out stuff or help friends/family clear theirs. Contact me with any questions and/or delivery help. Click here to read more features from the latest Enews. Men’s clothes: Pants sizes 30 through 40 Shirts all sizes Coats all sizes Men’s shoes Belts Backpacks/duffel bags Used cell phones – working order, factory reset so all prior data is erased and no lock codes on them. Home goods and furniture at limited capacity – lamps, artwork type of wall hangings for folks who are moving into permanent housing, things to make the transition cozier!
Sometimes having to let go comes when we least expect it. Read about the petty theft I recently experienced and the resulting message of resiliency. Turns out we have more help in dealing with ‘stuff’ than we may think.
Also in this Summer ACP Enews – a favorite and refreshing beverage idea for staying hydrated during the hot months AND a tip on saving $ on your energy bill. Stay cool and stay clear! Read all about it.
Clearing out your stuff is all about self-care. Creating a space that allows for ease of movement, quiet reflection, playtime and peace of mind is essential for wellbeing. As you look around your room/home, if you’re not smiling – start clearing. A little bit of letting go can do wonders for your outlook. It’s ok to start slowly. Begin with the room you spend the most time in and go from there. Reminder: Don’t feel guilty about getting rid of any items left behind by family. They would not want you to feel burdened. You deserve a home that you love and that loves you back. You’ll know it when you arrive there. Here’s to getting clear!
One of the most frequent questions I get is: “Who can I call to come get my donation stuff?” A number of nonprofits have suspended pick up service during these pandemic times and the ones who still pick up charge in the $60 range. What they will accept has also gotten very specific. Drivers are allowed to leave behind anything they deem not acceptable which can really vary depending on who is behind the wheel that day. Hauling services can be your best bet IF you have large furniture items and the resources to pay the average minimum $160 pick up fee. The answer? I always suggest contacting the VVA (Vietnam Veterans of America). Pick up service is FREE and scheduling is fast, efficient and available in most states nationwide. Everything from clothing to books, small household items, bikes and toys can be donated. The rules are simple: Label bags/boxes “VVA” and all items must be light enough to be lifted by one person. Once ready, leave items outside on the porch, at your building entrance or in the driveway. The truck will pick up rain or shine between the hours of 8 am and 5 pm on the day you selected. Tax receipts are available. Visit the VVA website to schedule and to learn more about how your donations are processed and why they matter. NOTE: As with all donations, make sure items are clean and in usable condition. Visit my Resources page for more donation options. Thanks for your efforts in making life clearer and brighter for yourself and others!
Do Good shelter in SW PDX has an updated list of needs for their residents. Perfect to keep in mind as you are getting your fall and winter items out of storage and seeing what may or may not work for you anymore. Be sure all items are in good condition. And feel free to share the list with any local merchants. Please contact me for pick up arrangements. Thanks, as always, for making it a clear day! Click to view the list of needs.
Summer is the season in which we celebrate the sweetness of life.Appreciating even the little lifts that come our way can do a world of good – especially in these stress filled times. The latest issue of ACP Enews is filled with fun and creative inspiration from an egg yolk surprise to a cool new product to a mini art gallery with a mission you’ll love. Stay cool, stay smiling and stay clear! Check it out here.
Thanks to all who donated to the Do Good garden project this Spring. The residents really dug creating their own mini gardens and raised beds. Take a look at the results and view the property’s latest wish list. Also, read about the surprising delight of a kiwi that came my way, get a tip on cleaning products and learn about the elevating energy of rose. Have a clear day everyone! Read all about it in the latest ACP Enews.
A Clear Place 