Contribution Guidelines
Not sure if something is a good fit for 611? Start here.
611 is a curated Free Store, which means we are intentional about what we bring into the space. We want the things on our shelves to be items someone would be happy to receive and use.
Our Contribution Guidelines cover what we accept, what we cannot accept, and what to keep in mind before bringing something to 611.
To help us care for the space and the people who use it, contributions are accepted during designated drop-off hours only. Our hours change each month, so please check the Calendar before stopping by.
Please check our 611 Updates for current needs, items we’re currently accepting, and any temporary pauses on contributions we have too much of right now.
Drop-Off Guidelines-
Condition. Condition. Condition.
Before you contribute something to 611, take a second look at it. Would you give it to a friend or family member? Would you be happy to receive it yourself?
We only accept items that are clean, functional, complete, and in new or like-new condition. Items that are stained, torn, broken, heavily worn, damaged, incomplete, or need cleaning or repair are not a good fit. Some of our shoppers may not have the resources to clean and repair, so we want the things on our shelves to be ready to use and something you would feel good choosing for yourself.
Free swag, camp T-shirts, promotional giveaways, uniforms, and items listing dates from the past, are also items we pass on.
We do not put these items on our floor. That means every item has to be sorted out by volunteers and then taken away by volunteers. A little thought before you donate helps us spend that time on the work getting things onto our shelves and into the hands of our shoppers.
There are lots of other local organizations and second-hand stores that accept a wider range of items, so if something isn't a fit for 611, there may be another great place for it.
We're always happy to receive:
Clothing and shoes in excellent condition
Purses, bags, backpacks, and jewelry (always high need)
Household essentials, home goods, and decor
Kitchenware and dishes
Toys, games, and puzzles
Art and craft supplies
Unopened toiletries, hygiene, and beauty products. Please see the essentials list.
Unopened food and pantry items. Please see the pantry list.
Size matters, and a good rule of thumb: If ONE person can comfortably carry it through our front door and you'd happily pass it along to a friend, it's probably a great fit for 611. Many of our shoppers walk or take public transportation to 611.
Please don't bring:
Large furniture
Large toys
Stained, dirty, or damaged items
Broken electronics
Expired products
Heavily worn goods
Prescription glasses
Medical equipment
Items missing pieces
Bedding & linens
Towels
Used car seats
Anything that needs repair or cleaning before someone else can use it
A Quick Reminder-
Please don't leave donations outside the building.
We know it's often meant to be helpful, but unattended donations create a safety hazard, and may be damaged by weather before volunteers are able to bring them inside. The best way to help is to drop off your donations during our scheduled drop-off hours.
Please don't dump items that don't fit our guidelines.
We know you're trying to find a new home for things you no longer need, and that's exactly what contributions to 611 are about. But please don't bring items that don't meet our guidelines and leave them for our volunteers to sort through. Items that aren't a fit take up valuable space, require significant volunteer time to sort and move, and leave our volunteers responsible for hauling them away.
Please check the guidelines before bringing your contributions to 611. If an item isn't a fit, please find another way to pass it along or dispose of it.
Thoughtful donations help us make the best use of our volunteers' time and keep 611 Free Store welcoming, organized, and ready for the next person.
Before you contribute, take a quick look at our 611 Updates page to see what we're especially looking for right now.
SHOPPING IS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
