FAQs: Where to Donate Shoes Near Me?

If you’re looking to clear out your closet or just want to give your gently used shoes a second life, donating them is a fantastic option. Many organizations gladly accept shoes to help those in need, support environmental sustainability, or fund charitable programs. But how do you find a place near you to donate? Here’s a guide to help you find the right spot.

1. National Charities with Local Drop-Off Locations

These large organizations have multiple drop-off spots across the country. Use their online locator tools to find the nearest donation centers.

Goodwill

What they accept: Gently used shoes, clothing, household items, and more.
How it helps: Goodwill uses donations to fund job training programs and other community services.
How to donate: Check their store locator to find the nearest Goodwill drop-off point.

The Salvation Army

What they accept: Shoes in good condition (men’s, women’s, and children’s), along with clothing and household items.
How it helps: Donations are sold in thrift stores to fund programs for people in need, including addiction recovery and homelessness support.
How to donate: Use their donation locator to find drop-off locations in your area.

Soles4Souls

What they accept: New and gently used shoes.
How it helps: They distribute shoes to people in need around the world and sell used shoes to fund their programs.
How to donate: Visit Soles4Souls' donation page to find drop-off points or request a donation box.

Habitat for Humanity ReStores

What they accept: Shoes and other household items.
How it helps: Proceeds from the sale of donated items support Habitat for Humanity’s mission to build affordable housing.
How to donate: Find a Habitat for Humanity ReStore near you by using their store locator.

2. Local Thrift Stores and Consignment Shops

Many local thrift stores and consignment shops accept shoes. These stores may sell gently used items to fund local programs or offer affordable options to those in need.

Plato's Closet

What they accept: Gently used shoes, especially trendy or brand-name footwear.
How it helps: They sell the shoes and offer store credit or cash in return.
How to donate: Visit your local Plato's Closet location to donate or sell.

Buffalo Exchange

What they accept: Shoes in good condition, particularly fashionable or high-quality footwear.
How it helps: Buffalo Exchange is a resale shop that resells your donations and helps promote sustainable fashion.
How to donate: Check their store locator to find a location near you.

3. Homeless Shelters and Domestic Violence Shelters

Many homeless shelters and shelters for domestic violence victims accept shoes, especially those in need of basic clothing and footwear.

What they accept: Gently used shoes for men, women, and children.
How it helps: Donations help provide essential items to those who are experiencing homelessness or are in crisis situations.
How to donate: Find a local shelter in your area (search online or through local resource guides) and contact them directly to arrange a donation.

4. Community and Religious Organizations

Churches, mosques, synagogues, and other religious institutions often run community outreach programs that accept shoes. They may distribute shoes directly to those in need or use them in fundraising events.

What they accept: Shoes, along with other clothing and household donations.
How it helps: Many faith-based organizations offer programs to help the homeless, refugees, and low-income families.
How to donate: Contact local religious institutions to see if they are currently accepting donations.

5. Shoe Recycling Programs

If your shoes are beyond repair, many organizations still accept them for recycling to reduce waste.

Nike Reuse-A-Shoe

What they accept: Worn-out athletic shoes, no matter the brand.
How it helps: Shoes are turned into materials for new products like running tracks, playgrounds, or new shoes.
How to donate: Drop off your old shoes at participating Nike stores or find a collection box near you through their website.

SoleRebels

What they accept: Worn-out shoes, especially from eco-conscious brands.
How it helps: Recycles shoes and materials into new products or donates shoes to people in need.
How to donate: Look up local drop-off locations or inquire at eco-conscious stores that partner with SoleRebels.

6. Local Schools or Sports Teams

If you have gently used athletic shoes, sports teams or schools may appreciate donations for their students or programs.

What they accept: Sports shoes, including cleats, running shoes, and gym shoes.
How it helps: Helps local children or athletes who may not be able to afford new equipment.
How to donate: Contact local schools or sports organizations directly to see if they need donations.

7. Online Platforms for Donation

Some online platforms allow you to donate shoes to people in need across the country or even around the world.

Freecycle

What they accept: Gently used shoes.
How it helps: Helps match people in your community who are giving away free items with those who need them.
How to donate: Visit Freecycle.org to find a group near you and offer your shoes for free.

Final Thoughts

Donating shoes is a great way to help others while reducing waste. Whether you're donating to a national charity, local thrift store, or religious institution, your gently used shoes can make a big difference. Use the options listed above to find the nearest place to donate and feel good about your contribution.