With the New Year, we all get a fresh start. Why not give your closet one, too? The benefits of an end-of-year closet clean-out extend far beyond better-organized shelves and shoe racks by helping worthy local charitable organizations fund their programs and provide clothing to families and individuals in need. So grab a giveaway bag and get started. When you’re done, any one of these local non-profits will be happy to give your pre-loved goods a second life.

• Out of the Closet: When you donate clothing and household items to this California-based organization, you’ll be supporting the fight against HIV and AIDS through the AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s prevention and treatment programs.
• Goodwill: Multiple city locations make this a convenient place to send your used clothing and household items. Donations support the national non-profit’s many education and career training programs for disadvantaged men and women.
• Community Thrift: Pick the charity that will receive the proceeds generated by your donation from this Mission thrift store’s lengthy list of over 200 worthy non-profit partners. Four times a year, the thrift store distributes accrued funds to the local organizations it supports.
• The Salvation Army: Donate in person or schedule a pick-up through this national provider of social services programs for children, adults and the elderly.
• St. Anthony Foundation: This organization’s SoMA-based clothing and housewares program benefits over 2,600 homeless and low-income men, women and children each month. Donations of clean new and almost-new clothing are accepted.
• St. Vincent de Paul: Donations to this human services organization support its shelters, substance abuse and domestic violence prevention programs. Among the clothing items needed most are men’s pants, shirts and coats, as well as underwear and comfortable walking shoes or sneakers.
• Raphael House: This longtime local shelter provides clothing and other essentials to its residents, many of who arrive with little more than the clothing on their backs. Donations are accepted at the shelter-run thrift store, which accepts new or nearly-new clothing, accessories, shoes and household items. Because the staff and storage space are limited, it’s best to call ahead before bringing donations.
• Dress for Success: During your clean-out session, put aside any women’s interview-appropriate suits and pantsuits in sizes 12 to 16. The local affiliate of this international non-profit especially needs them. The next collection drive is scheduled for late February 2009. Check the web site for details.