What Is the Real Value of Charitable Donations? You May Be Surprised to Find Out

According to research estimates, roughly 70% of Americans give to charity at least once annually. In 2012, the monetary amount for that giving was around $316.23 billion, including the value of charitable donations of clothing and other items. However, if that number went up, charitable giving in the United States could surpass that amount and go toward helping more people in local communities and throughout the globe.

But how do your donations to charity help the world, you may wonder? Here is what you should know about the real value of charitable donations:

1. Donating clothing, household goods, and other items can help save the planet. It’s an unfortunate fact that the United States produces a significant portion of solid waste — some of the highest amounts on the planet. In fact, clothing — the most salvageable item on the planet — goes to the landfill in record amounts, usually about 12 to 13 million tons per year. However, it is estimated that around 95% of clothing in landfills could have been reused and donated to charity instead of thrown out.

2. Giving donations is one of the easiest ways of helping families in need. One of the strongest reasons to give to charity is, of course, that it helps other people. Programs that benefit the needy are responsible with providing them with food, shelter, clothing, and even household goods to furnish their homes. When people donate to charity, they make these organizations run more smoothly and provide ample items to enhance the lives of others.

3. Donations to charity have value for donors, too. Perhaps the greatest value of charitable donations is that even those who donate can see benefits. In addition to cleaning out a closet or basement, donors also get the sense of satisfaction that comes with helping others. Donating can also provide monetary advantages, as many charitable donations are eligible for tax deductions.

Do you have questions about where to donate household items, when to donate clothes, or what to donate in the first place? Feel free to leave suggestions in the comments section.