A guide to giving—and getting—more out of the things we no longer need
Maintained by CJ Flynn – cjflynn.com
Over the years, I’ve worked with individuals and families in Cedar Rapids to help them get access to affordable essentials and rehome the things they no longer needed. This guide is a curated list of donation and resale locations in our community that I've personally found helpful. Many of these places not only accept donations, but also sell low-cost items that support local programs.
While Cedar Rapids has many more nonprofits and thrift stores, this is my core list—places I recommend because of their community value, affordability, and mission.
I believe in getting items to their highest and best use—whether that’s helping someone in need or giving a second life to something useful.
💡 Tip: Always call ahead or check the organization's website. Policies change, and hours may vary.
This list was accurate when I used these resources, but availability may differ today.
More ideas: CRMoms Donation List
Here’s a refined and expanded version of your Cedar Rapids Donation & Thrift Resource Guide that keeps your original spirit while improving clarity, structure, and readability. I’ve grouped items by category, enhanced descriptions, added consistency, and improved the intro and disclaimer:
Sell or donate a wide range of household items. A mix of resale and donation options.
📍 252 Blairs Ferry Rd NE, Cedar Rapids
📞 (319) 373-2380
🌐 shopstuffetc.com
One of the most affordable thrift stores. Great for books, electronics, furniture, and more.
📍 5824 Council St NE, Cedar Rapids
📞 (800) 728-7825
🌐 satruck.org
Accepts used bikes and parts. Supports bike repair and donation programs.
📍 39 16th Ave SW, Cedar Rapids
📞 (319) 389-0321
🌐 newbobikes.org
Provides furniture and essential items to people transitioning out of homelessness.
📍 2275 16th Ave SW, Cedar Rapids
📞 (319) 382-2882
🌐 centralfurniturerescue.org
Low-cost, tested appliances, tools, and building supplies. Proceeds support Habitat for Humanity.
📍 350 6th Ave SE, Cedar Rapids
📞 (319) 294-1500
🌐 cvhabitat.org/restore
Accepts fresh food before expiration to support shelter residents.
📍 1247 4th Ave SE, Cedar Rapids
📞 (319) 362-7555
🌐 willisdady.org
Drop off non-perishable food and toiletries directly into community-accessible boxes.
🌐 littlefreepantry.org
Donate gently used books to Friends of the Library groups for resale.
🌐 Metro Library Network
Buyback program for books, DVDs, CDs, and games. Not a big payout, but keeps items in circulation.
📍 1400 Twixt Town Rd, Marion, IA
📞 (319) 377-4982
🌐 hpb.com/stuff-we-buy
Resells games, DVDs, and tech items. Worth checking for resale value.
🌐 videogamesetc.com
Drop off books for anyone to take—great for neighborhoods and high foot-traffic areas.
🌐 littlefreelibrary.org
Takes clothing, books, and toys for children and infants. Supports young families in need.
📍 420 6th St SE, Cedar Rapids
📞 (319) 364-8909
🌐 ypniowa.org
Accepts wheelchairs, walkers, adult diapers, and related supplies.
📍 525 A Ave NE, Cedar Rapids
📞 (319) 362-1929
🌐 crgraceepiscopal.org/medical-lending-closet
Supports immigrants, refugees, and women in transition. Accepts hygiene and household items.
📍 866 4th Ave SE, Cedar Rapids
📞 (319) 363-4993
🌐 cmc-cr.org
One of the few places that accepts used socks, underwear, and more.
📍 405 8th Ave SE, Cedar Rapids
📞 (319) 364-1988
🌐 bridgehavencr.org/treasures
You can register as an organ, tissue, or eye donor—saving lives even after you're gone.
📍 550 Madison Ave, North Liberty, IA
📞 1-800-831-4131
🌐 iowadonornetwork.org
If you’re downsizing, decluttering, or just want to make a difference—these places give your donations new purpose. Whether it’s helping a family furnish their first apartment or keeping old books and DVDs in circulation, your unused stuff has value.
Feel free to email me CJFLYNN@CJFLYNN.COM if you have suggestions or would like help donating.
Links to more
https://kitsforacause.com/the-best-items-to-donate-to-charity/
https://benevity.com/resources/50-ideas-to-do-good
https://www.consumerreports.org/money/charities/best-charities-for-your-donations-a4066579102/
https://www.moneycrashers.com/best-places-donate-used-stuff/