Donate to Charities in Honolulu

It’s better to give than receive, especially if giving helps someone in need. Donate your used items to these local charities and get that warm fuzzy from Christmas giving without spending a dime.

Wire Someone Up

Old computers, software, printers, monitors, modems and accessories get new life at statewide elementary and high schools with a donation to Hawaii Computers for Kids. Call for the wish list of items and to make arrangements to drop off at the Kaneohe office. Or, arrange a closer pick up location with staff. Hawaii Computers for Kids, 47-396 Kamehameha Hwy., Kaneohe, 521-2259,
 

Go Big or Go Home

The Salvation Army will take any large item—from boats to refrigerators to televisions—so long a they’re in good condition. The best part? Home pick-up Tuesday through Friday, and usually appointments are available within a week. Call 1-800-728-7825 to schedule a pickup. Salvation Army, 2950 Manoa Rd., Honolulu.

Eat Your Heart Out

That can of turkey gravy isn’t going to be part of your Christmas dinner, so take it to Hawaii Foodbank and make it part of someone else’s. The Hawaii Foodbank provides food to low-income working adults, the elderly, children, homeless, and those experiencing temporary emergencies on Oahu, Hawaii, Maui and Kauai.

Drop off at the Hawaii Foodbank Warehouse Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., 2611 Kilihau St., Honolulu, 836-3600, or go to Ruby Tuesday, Napa Auto Parts and Hard Rock Café, which are year-round collection points. Visit http://www.hawaiifoodbank.org/page30.aspx for additional locations.

Cash for Clunkers

Save yourself the hassle of haggling at the dealership on a trade-in. Instead, donate your old car and score a $500 deduction (sure to help out come tax time). The National Kidney Foundation will take the car, sell it, and use the proceeds for things like kidney screenings, medical research and financial assistance for patients. Before you drop off your car, visit the website for a complete set of instructions and to download the forms.The National Kidney Foundation 1314 S. King St., Honolulu, 596-7575.

Kid Around

Check out the list of items needed for the nonprofit Child and Family Service at http://www.childandfamilyservice.org/cfs.php?id1=3&id2=12. From diapers to canned goods to vacuums, your donation will go to one of 38 programs serving 28,000 vulnerable and troubled individuals or families throughout Hawaii. No walk-ins are accepted, so call 681-3500 to arrange your donation. Child and Family Service, 91-1841 Ft. Weaver Rd., Ewa Beach, 681-3500.
 

For more ideas on where to donate, look for our January 2011 issue of Honolulu Magazine.