Donations

Any time of year works, but drop-offs and collections are easiest on weekday mornings and Saturday mornings. Charities and NICU wards are especially grateful in the run-up to winter (April–June) for warm clothes and blankets, and around back-to-school (December–January) for uniforms, shoes and stationery. Try to give recipients 1–2 weeks' notice for larger loads so they have space to receive them.

Most listed charities and moms' groups reply within 24–72 hours on weekdays. If you haven't heard back after three working days, try a second contact method (WhatsApp usually beats email) or move to the next organisation on the list, they all appreciate the items, and something urgent will always find a home somewhere.

Pickup is most commonly available across Sandton, Rosebank, Bryanston, Fourways, Randburg, Parkhurst, Melville, Linden, Greenside and Bedfordview, usually for full-boot loads or bulky items like cots and prams. Smaller donations (a bag or two of clothes) are almost always drop-off at the charity or a nearby collection point. Confirm the exact suburb radius and any petrol contribution with the organisation before they drive out.

Everything should be clean, safe and something you'd happily pass to a friend. Clothes: washed, no rips or heavy stains. Shoes: paired, soles intact. Toys: all pieces present, batteries working. Car seats and cots: only if they're within date, undamaged, and you have the manual, expired car seats can't legally be re-used. When in doubt, ask before dropping off; charities would rather guide you than turn items away at the door.

Only registered PBOs with Section 18A status can issue a tax certificate, and usually only for cash or valued goods above a small threshold. Ask the charity upfront whether they can issue one and what paperwork they need (an itemised list with estimated resale value is standard). Moms' groups and informal networks generally can't issue certificates, the reward is knowing another family benefits.

For larger clear-outs (a full nursery, moving house, an estate) message a few options from the Donations list and mention the volume up front, some charities send a team with boxes and a bakkie. You can also post in local Facebook mom groups or on our WhatsApp community for volunteers to help sort and pack. If you're stuck, email us via the contact page and we'll connect you to someone in your area.