Discarding Reusable Materials

As textile volumes increase, we need to find alternatives to discarding this reusable material. Reclaimed textiles can contribute considerably to reducing the impact of textile processes on the environment including the demand for chemicals, water and energy consumption (used heavily in the generation of new textiles). Local organizations provide a great outlet for these materials. Some of these companies will come to your door to pick up this reusable material and you may receive a receipt for a tax deduction.

ABVI–Goodwill
422 S. Clinton Avenue
Rochester, NY 14620
Phone: 585 232-1111

In 1997, Goodwill collected and recycled 2.5 million pounds of textiles. Goodwill also partnered with Monroe County to collect textiles at selected household hazardous waste mobile collections.

Volunteers of America
214 Lake Avenue
Rochester, NY 14608
Phone: 585 647-1150

In 1992, Monroe County named Volunteers of America the “Environmentalist of the Year” for the agency’s recycling efforts. VOA’s efforts keep tons of aluminum, cardboard, leather and other reusable materials out of landfills. VOA also collected textiles at selected household hazardous waste mobile collections.

The Salvation Army—RAS
70 Liberty Pole Way
P.O. Box 41210
Rochester, NY 14604
Phone: 585 987-9500

If you have any toys, clothing, canned goods, toiletries or infant care products, the Salvation Army can put them to good use.

St. Pauly Textile
1067 Gateway Drive
Farmington, NY 14425
Phone: 585 924-1430

St. Pauly’s mission is to reduce the amount of useable clothing going into our landfills and get that clothing to people who can use it. Its efforts include working with local charities, school organizations, churches and the general public. St. Pauly specializes in working with non-profit organizations to achieve a portion of their fund raising needs.