As you know I have been using Craig's List to secure donations for the orphanages and medical facilities that we send gifts of kind to.  It has been a very successful week and today is, Go through Donations Day.  Darlene, one of my Board members and our Sewing Coordinator will be here all day. 

      I want to tell you what I do with donations because maybe it will help you know what to do, even if just an idea or two. 

     Everything I receive is washed before it is sent to Haiti, this includes toys, books and clothing.  The toys if they are soft and have cloth on them go directly into the washing machine, however sometimes washing the toys recquires a little creativity.  A few weeks ago someone gave me a huge bag of legos and they were given a Jacuzzi bath.  It worked perfectly.  I removed them with a pasta strainer before emptying the water so that the dirt wouldn't just fall back on them.  I am sure a regular bath would work just fine.  Many of todays toys may find themselves in the Jacuzzi.

     Books are handwashed so the covers are clean.

     I stain treat and wash, sometimes bleach all clothing.  If I cannot remove the stains I do not send the item. 

     One last thing, I like my donations to look clean, new and packed with care.  To add a little extra touch I put a dryer sheet into the tote.  I shop special for these to make sure I have a very clean pretty fragrance.  When the totes get to Haiti and are opened I want them to know without a doubt they have just received a gift.

     Have fun washing and packing.  I know I always do.