Most of us have donated clothes with the hope that they’ll help someone in need. But what if that old jacket or bag of shoes did more than just clear your closet? What if it helped a child find confidence, guidance, and hope?
At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island (BBBSLI), your donated items do exactly that.
From Your Closet to a Child’s Future
BBBSLI operates a year-round Donation Center Program that collects gently used clothing and household items from homes and local donation bins across Nassau and Suffolk counties.
But here’s the part that surprises most people:
100% of net proceeds from these donations directly fund BBBSLI’s mentoring programs.
That means every shirt, sweater, and stuffed animal you donate helps match a child with a caring adult mentor—someone who listens, encourages, and helps them grow.
Why This Model Matters
Unlike many nonprofits that rely solely on grants or seasonal giving, BBBSLI’s donation-based funding model provides a sustainable source of revenue to support hundreds of mentoring relationships year-round.
This unique approach:
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Helps fund background checks, training, and support for new mentors
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Supports specialized programs like Bigs in Blue, Sports Buddies, and Sibling Support
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Keeps administrative costs low, allowing more money to go directly to services
Your donations don’t just clothe people—they empower programs that transform lives.
Real Impact, Real Stories
Take one Long Island teen who was struggling academically and socially after a difficult family separation. With the support of a BBBSLI mentor—funded in part by clothing donations—he started showing up to school on time, participating in class, and setting goals for his future.
“It’s not just about having someone to talk to,” he said. “It’s about knowing someone believes in you.”
That belief was made possible by people like you who chose to give, not throw away.
What You Can Donate
BBBSLI accepts:
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Clothing & shoes (all sizes)
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Linens & towels
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Small toys & stuffed animals
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Handbags, belts & accessories
Donations can be dropped off at over 900 convenient bin locations or scheduled for free home pickup.
Small Act, Big Ripple
Donating a bag of clothes may feel like a small gesture. But for the children in our programs, it’s so much more.
It’s mentoring. It’s growth. It’s a possibility.
So next time you clean out your closet, remember:
You’re not just letting go. You’re lifting someone up.
