The holidays are a time to support neighbors in need, and Boston has many trusted donation opportunities for toys, clothing, food, and essentials. Below are several organizations, with addresses, what they accept, and how to donate this season.
Toys & Kids’ Items
Cradles To Crayons – New & gently used children’s items
Cradles to Crayons accepts a wide range of new and like-new children’s clothing and shoes for ages 0–12, plus books and school supplies (check before donating toys as drop-off rules vary). Cradles to Crayons+1
How to donate: Find a seasonal drop-off around Boston at their Find a Local Drop-Off page: cradlestocrayons.org/boston/take-action/donate-goods/find-local-drop-off Cradles to Crayons
Clothing Donations
The Goodwill Store (South Boston) & The Goodwill Store (Roxbury) — Clothing & household goods
Goodwill accepts gently used clothing, coats, accessories, and household items. Many locations in and around Boston offer drop-off bins near their stores. Morgan Memorial Goodwill Industries
Urban Renewals — Local thrift shop supporting community reuse
Great place to donate clean, gently used clothing and accessories.
Women’s Lunch Place — Support downtown shelters
Accepts donations (check website/contact for specific holiday details) to directly support women experiencing homelessness.
St. Francis House — Adult clothing drive
Gently used and seasonal clothing helps Boston’s largest day shelter support guests in need. stfrancishouse.org
Food & Essential Supplies
Greater Boston Food Bank — Regional food distribution
One of Boston’s largest food drives. Donate non-perishable food items or contribute online for maximum seasonal impact.
Food For Free — Local food access programs
Supports community food access in Boston and nearby communities.
Community Servings — Meals for those with medical needs
Your donations help prepare medically tailored meals for families in need.
Other Ways to Donate & Volunteer
Boston Cares — Volunteer coordination
Connects volunteers to short-term and seasonal service opportunities across donation and meal programs.
Salvation Army (Boston South End Corps)
1500 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02118 — Holiday programs and social services also accept seasonal support. The Salvation Army USA
American Red Cross Boston
274 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116 — Drop off supplies or check local drives. Dumpsters
Tips Before You Donate
✔ Check each organization’s seasonal hours and drop-off details on their linked pages.
✔ Label boxes clearly and pack gently used or new items.
✔ Call ahead when possible if donating larger quantities or bulky items.





