c/EPA
New England
United States
Environmental
Protection Agency
Region I, New England
EPA90I-B-00-OOI
January 2000
A Resource Guide to Donation Opportunities
for Businesses, Local Governments, and Residents
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Research done by the Research Library for Resource Conservation and Re-
covery Act (RCRA) at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 1,
New England (a contractor-operated facility, GCI).
Rebecca Herman, Information Specialist, Research Library for RCRA, is the
principal author of this document. Assistance provided by Christine Beling
and Cynthia Green of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region I, New
England; Fred Friedman Research Library for RCRA; Ellen Roffman, Ver-
mont Business Materials Exchange; Amy Perlmutter, Chelsea Center for
Recycling and Economic Development; Connie Leach, Association of
Vermont Recyclers; Mark Toussaint, WasteCap of New Hampshire; Laura
Dubester and Jim Desmond, Center for Ecological Technology; Carolyn
Grodinsky of the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources; Megan DeYoung of
WasteCap of Massachusetts; and Julie Rhodes, Reuse Development
Organization, Inc.
Some information in Definitions and Introduction to Reuse reused with
permission from The Massachusetts Business'Guide to Reuse by WasteCap of
Massachusetts, October 1997.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction to Reuse 2
What is the Purpose of this Guide? 2
Existing Reuse Directories 6
Materials Exchanges 8
Classified Opportunities I I
P
Donation Programs 13
Building Materials Resources I 3
Computer Equipment I 5
Surplus Inventory for the Arts/Education 17
Consumer Goods 21
Food 25
Medical Devices, Equipment and Supplies 26
Local and State Programs 28
Reuse Success Stories 30
Definitions for the Purpose of this Guide 3 I
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INTRODUCTION To REUSE
What is Reuse ?
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's 1989 Agenda for Action
promotes a solid waste hierarchy to first- reduce/reuse, to second-
recycle (including compost), to third- incineration with energy re-
covery and to finally-landfill when managing, "trash" disposal.
What is the Purpose of this Guide?
The purpose of the Reuse Resources of New Englpnd is to promote
reuse over traditional solid waste disposal of materials that still have
"use." The Guide is intended to be
used by businesses, institutions, gov-
ernments who deal with off-spec ^••"•^^^^^^••••••""i
production or asset management, and The purpose of the
others who repeatedly need to dis- Reuse Resources of
pose of items that still may have "use." New England is to
It contains listings for where to do- promote reuse of
nate. used goods or unwanted mate- materials
rials, and serves those in Connecti-
cut, Maine, Massachusetts, New ^^^•^MHMM^^^MM
Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont.
This guide features organizations that
are not-for-profit corporations unless stated otherwise.
What is the Difference between Recycling and Reuse?
In the case of a computer, here is the difference.
RECYCLING: The computer would be separated into its compo-
nent parts, breaking it down into "raw" materials such as metals
and plastics.
REMANUFACTl/R/NG.The computer would be rebuilt into a "new"
product for sale.
REUSE- The computer would be used again in its original form
for the same purpose, or it would be used again for another
purpose by simply moving its location/user, or making minor soft-
ware/hardware changes. An example of reuse would be dona-
tion to a non-profit organization. (Please refer to Definitions, sec-
tion for further clarification)
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Why Reuse?
There are many opportunities and reasons for a business or home-
owner to reuse its unwanted or surplus materials. Reuse Opera-
tions may be traditional non-profit charitable organizations or for-
profit businesses.They have developed out of the recognition that it
makes good economic sense to reuse, refurbish or remanufacture
an already existing product rather than making a new one with raw
materials.
Conservation of Natural Resources: Reuse gives a product with value
a "second life," and saves the raw materials that would be used in
manufacturing a new product. Remanufacturing, refurbishing, and
repairing all use fewer raw materials and conserve both energy
and natural resources. By finding a use for that old file cabinet or
remanufacturing your toner cartridges, you are helping to con-
serve valuable natural resources that go into new products, while
also conserving landfill space.
Cost Sav/ngs:The same avoided disposal costs that a business or
homeowner achieves through recycling may also be achieved
through reuse. You may even find that the financial benefits are
greater through reuse, in particular it generally costs less to buy
used.
Social Benefits: As a general philosophy, reuse fulfills a dual goal in
the community by diverting waste
from disposal while getting materials
^•"^^^•^^^^^^••"^ to those in need.
REDUCE, Tax Deductions: A donation to a non-
REUSE, profit reuse operation with
RECYCLE 50l(c)(3) status can result in a tax
deduction through the IRS, based on
^"•^^^•••^^ the Full Fair Market Value of the do-
nation.
Why Repair?
Repair is another avenue to reuse, local bookstores and libraries
should have books available that focus on repair of reusables. Most
manufacturers can be called directly to locate authorized repair
people and parts, or, to supply repair instructions. A well proven re-
source.The Yellow Pages, is now available online at www.bigyellow.com.
It can be searched easily using key words such as "repair" or, the
material's name. For example; "automobile-repair."
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Why Buy Reused?
Buying reused supports solid waste management goals. Buying and
using items that are reusable supports a method of waste manage-
ment that has been identified by the EPA and others, as a priority
method of handling materials — REUSE. Less energy and resources
are used when an item can be reused instead of disassembled, ground,
shredded, melted, molded or otherwise processed for recycling. Per-
fectly good items which are no longer wanted or needed by one may
find a useful home with others.
An item can often times be reused several times, then sent to the
recycling center for processing. The list of reused items is long, and
reuse opportunities can be found in nearly every community in-
cluding: thrift stores and charitable drop-off centers; efforts supply-
ing charities, low-income people, food banks, and schools with reus-
able equipment and materials;"drop & swap" stations at local landfills
or transfer stations; used equipment stores and salvage yards; local
and regional material exchanges.
Buyer or Seller Beware
Not all charitable-sounding organizations requesting donations are
eligible to receive gifts. When a tax write-off is planned, ask for a
copy .of the organization's Internal Revenue Service Determination
Letter, that letter, generally 2 pages, verifies the soliciting group is tax
exempt as a charity under section 50l(c)(3) of the Internal Rev-
enue Code. Note that churches are not required to apply for ex-
empt status, and may not have such a letter. There are "watchdog"
organizations that publish reports on
non-profit organizations, such as the ^mmmmmHlim^l^i^limmm^^
National Charities Information Bureau, Be sufe ,o check jmo
located at: www.give.org/reporta.cfm. jonation detfl//$ flm/
Be sure to check into donation details ,
and processes that are specific to each Proce«es that are
organization prior to donating. specific to each
organization prior to
There may be environ mental, health, or . **
, j. t donating.
safety concerns regarding reuse, a few °
of which are mentioned here. Some wm—mm^^^^^^.^^^
materials, such as older vehicles and
appliances, may be significantly less en-
ergy efficient than hewer ones. Other materials, such as those used
in infant and child care, may have design or safety issues depending
on age and wear. Materials deemed for reuse in food preparation/
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storage may have previously contained toxic materials, or harbor
bacteria in cracks on surfaces that are not easily sanitized. Older
kitchenware, such as ceramic, crystal, or painted materials, may con-
tain lead, which is unsafe when heated in a microwave or dishwasher.
Last but not least, electrical items should be inspected to make sure
that they work properly.
Resources Worth Mentioning
Choose to Reuse, a book written by Nikki & David Goldbeck at :
healthiestdiet.com. or through Ceres Press, PO Box 87 WB,
Woodstock, NY 12498. This book discusses more than 200 topics
and 2000 reuse resources, from Air Filters to Zippers. Seen in US.
News & World Report, on the cover of £ Magazine, and on GoodMorn-
ing America, it is a valuable resource for the homeowner and envi-
ronmental enthusiast.
The Reuse Deve/opment Organization, Inc. (ReDO) is an organi-
zation of "reuse" professionals, located at: www.redQ.org/Qr by phone
at 317-631-5395. ReDO was created to promote reuse as an envi-
ronmentally sound, socially beneficial, and economical means for man-
aging surplus and discarded materials. ReDO fills an information void
where participants voice a desire to avoid "reinventing the wheel"
and share what they have learned. Collaboration is done through a
quarterly newsletter, email/web forum, publications, programs, and
services.
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EXISTING REUSE DIRECTORIES
There are many existing directories and web sites that focus on
reuse. The following is a compilation of resources that service the
New England area.
Choose to Reuse Vermont Online Database
Website: www.vtrecyclers.org/reuse.asp
E-Mail: recycle@sover.net
Address: AYR, P.O. Box 1244, Montpelier,VT
05601
Phone: 802-229-1833
Description: The Association of Vermont
Recyclers in collaboration with USDA's Rural
Development program, has created a searchable online database
which lists over 900 businesses statewide that repair, rent, salvage
and sell used products and surplus. Contact: Connie Leach Bisson.
Internet Resale Directory, and Resale Directory
Website: www.secondhand.com
Address: P.O. Box 297, Sonoma, CA 95476
Phone: (707) 939-9124
Description: Managed by Harris Publications, the Resale Directory
has grown to 145 pages with a distribution of 50,000 copies annu-
ally. It is available online, and can be searched by state for thrift shop
listings including: Consignment, Clothing, Furniture/Appliances, and Books.
The Massachusetts Business* Guide to Reuse
Website: www.wastecap.org/wastecap/publications.htm
Address: WasteCap of MA, 376 Boylston Street, Suite 303, Boston,
Massachusetts 021 16
Phone: 617-236-7715
Description: Compiled by WasteCap of Massachusetts, this direc-
tory contains 120 listings of nonprofit organizations, schools, and
companies in Massachusetts that accept donated materials for re-
use.The Reuse Guide also reviews the benefits of reuse, defines terms
associated with reuse, and lists additional reuse resources.
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The Massachusetts Guide to Recycled Product
Manufacturers
Website: vsrww.chelseacenter.org
Address: The Chelsea Ctr, 180 Second Street, Chelsea, MA 02150
Phone: 617-887-2300
Description: This directory is published by the Chelsea Center for
Recycling and Economic Development. Listings include 173 compa-
nies in Massachusetts that make recycled or remanufactured prod-
ucts. Updated listings are available online. Contact: Amy Perlmutter.
New Hampshire's Recycled and Reused Products
Directory 1998
Website: www.wastecapnh.org
Address: WasteCap of NH, 122 N. Main St., Concord, NH 03301
Phone: 603-224-5388
Description: The NH Recycled and Reused Products Directory, by
WasteCap of NH, assists businesses in purchasing materials that have
been recycled or reused. Contacts: MarkToussaint, Barbara Bernstein.
Recycler's World
Website: www.recycle.net
Description: Recycler's World, an online service, was established as
a world wide trading site for information related to secondary or
recyclable commodities, by-products, used/surplus items or materi-
als.Trading categories include Used Equipment, Used Commercial Items,
Used Building Materials, and Materials Exchanges.
Western Massachusetts Reuse Directory
Website: www.cet-ecotech.org
Address: Center for Ecological Technology, 112 Elm St., Pittsfield,
MA 01201
Phone: 413-445-4556, 413-586-7350
Description: Managed by the Center for Ecological Technology
(CET), this directory is a consumer-orientated publication, with list-
ings for where to buy and donate used.goods.There is also a smaller
section on rental, repair, borrowing from libraries, focus on automo-
biles, and advice on hard-to-recycle and hard-to-dispose of items.
Contacts: Lara Dubester, Jim Desmond.
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MATERIALS EXCHANGES
Materials Exchanges serve as a resource to
broker information to assist businesses that have
unwanted materials to connect with other
businesses or not-for-profits looking for the same
type of material. Most exchanges have listings of
"materials available" or "materials wanted" that are
provided either in newsletters, catalogs or online. For the most part,
exchanges do not directly handle the material but serve as a contact
point or a broker. The fee structure for each exchange varies from
no fee, a voluntary donation, or a percentage of the net value of the
material. Material exchanges function to reuse materials and to keep
materials out of the solid waste stream.
Maine Materials Exchange
E-mail: h.arndt@juno.com
Address: Eco-Waste, 93 Marquiot Dr., Freeport, ME 04032
Phone: 207-865-6621
Fax: 207-865-6621
Description:This organization publishes a quarterly newsletter with
material listings. Listings are free; service/processing fees may be
charged for successful exchanges. Acceptable materials include in-
dustrial bi-products, equipment and machinery, chemicals, appliances,
construction materials, electronics, leather, medical and office sup-
plies/equipment, and paper/cardboard. Contact: Harold Arndt.
Millenium Exchange
Website: www.milleniumexchange.com
Email: trade@milteniumexchange.com
Address: PO Box4875, Annapolis, MD 21403
Phone: 410-280-2080
Description: This for profit organization assists with the matching
of buyers/sellers of used/surplus industrial materials for reuse/recy-
cling, and provides direct contact with a third of the manufacturers
in the northeast. Contact Millenium for fee details. Contact: William
Sloane.
New Hampshire's Material's Exchange
Website: www.wastecapnh.org
E-mail: exchange@wastecapnh.org
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Address: WasteCap of NH, 122 N. Main St., Concord, NH 03301
Phone: 603-224-1517
Description: WasteCap's New Hampshire Materials Exchange
(NHME) is an online service by which generators of wastes are linked
with potential users of those wastes.The NHME operates a listing of
materials available and materials wanted by a wide range of users,
including businesses, schools, and non-profit groups. The Exchange
handles a diverse assortment of materials, and is also available in hard-
copy form through ReConnect/ons, the quarterly newsletter of the
WasteCap Resource Conservation Network.Contact: MarkToussaint.
Southern New England Materials Exchange (SNEME)
Website: www.rirrc.org/materials.shtml
Address: RIRRC, 65 Shun Pike, Johnston, Rl 02919
Phone: 401-942-1430
Description: The SNEME is a free, online service provided by the
Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corporation. It was designed to
create a link between businesses that have a surplus of waste mate-
rials, and other businesses that may have a use for them. Listings are
free and there are no finder's or subscription fees. Contact: David
Goldberg.
Surplus & Scrap Wood Products Exchange
Website: vvww.woodexchange.com/index/
Email: info@woodexchange.com
Address: VTE Company, Lie., Rte. 132, S. Stratford, VT 05070
Phone: 802-765-4673
Description: The for profit Virtual Trade Exchange Company LLC,
in cooperation with the Northeastern Area State and Private For-
estry- Economic Action Program, have developed this online site in
an effort to identify buyers and sellers of wood by-products, from
sawdust to surplus. Contact: Lincoln Alden.
Vermont Business Materials Exchange (VBMeX)
Website: www.enviro-source.com/vbmx/
Address: PO Box 430, Newfane.VT 05345
Phone: 802-365-7991 (email: ppress@sover.net)
Description: Sponsored by the Vermont Agency of Natural Re-
sources, VBMX is a free match-making service for companies with
excess materials, and businesses/individuals who can make produc-
tive use of these wastes. VBMX publishes a quarterly catalog of list-
ings with phone numbers included. All listings are also posted on the
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VBMX web site, and distributed quickly upon receipt to subscribers
of the VBMX email service. Materials accepted include: plastic/rubber,
wood/pallets, metals, chemicals, paper, textiles/leather, glass, electron-
ics, packaging, construction materials, food wastes, and more. Con-
tact: Ellen Roffman.
Western Massachusetts Materials Exchange Program
Website: www.cetoline.org
Email: cetnoho@aol.com
Address: GET, 26 Market St., Northampton, MA 01060
Phone: 413-586-7350 or 800-369-3333
Description: Managed by the Center for Ecological Technology
(CET), this exchange actively connects businesses disposing of
reuseable materials and by-products with those that can use them.
Call to place a listing. There are no up front fees to participate but
when a match is made, a contribution is required based on the sav-
ings from avoided disposal cost (by the "seller") or purchase cost
(by the "buyer"). A wide variety of materials are exchanged. Contact:
Jim Desmond.
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CLASSIFIED OPPORTUNITIES
The following are New England newspapers known
to advertise reusables for free. Most New England
newspapers are available online, including their
Classifieds sections. Yahoo! Boston, located online at
boston.yahoo.com. lists New England newspapers.
Burlington Free Press (Vermont)
Website: www.burlingtonfreepress.com
Address: 191 College St., Burlington,VT
Phone: 802-865-4600
Description: The 8FP has a special classified ad column, Absolutely
Free. There is no fee to post an ad if the item is free.
Cape Cod Chronicle (Massachusetts)
Website: www.capecodchronicle.com
Address: 60-C Munson Meeting Way, Chatham, MA 02633
Phone: 508-945-2220
Description: Published by Hyora Publications Inc., dba, the CCC has
a special classified ad column. Free, where individuals can advertise I
item per month valued at $150.00 or less.
Concord Monitor
Website: www.concordmonitor.com
Address: PO Box I 177, Concord, NH 03302
Phone: 603-224-5301
Description: The Concord Monitor offers free classified ads for
items under $75. Limit: 2 ads per week. Ads can be posted to the
website.
Daily Hampshire Garette
Website: www.gazettenet.com
Address: I 15 Conz St., Northhampton MA
Phone: 413-586-1700
Description: The Gazette has a section, Aunt Clara's Closet, where
items sold for less than $25 can be advertised for free.
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Martha's Vineyard Times (Massachusetts)
Website: www.mytimes.com
Address: 14 Beach Rd.,Vineyard Haven, MA
Phone: 508-693-6100
Description: On Martha's Vineyard, the MV Times has a Bargain Box
every week where items valued under $100 can be advertised for
free.
Peabody & Lynnfield Weekly News (Massachusetts)
Website: www2.shore.net/~weeklyns/weeklyns.html
Address: P.O. Box 6039, Peabody, MA 01961-6039
Phone: 800-221-2078 (Ext.342)
Description: This weekly has a Classifieds section, including a cat-
egory, Free Stuff!
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DONATION PROGRAMS
Donation isn't a new idea. People and organizations have always passed
along goods they no longer need. What is new is the reemerging
awareness that "waste" can be a resource. This guide focuses on
donation opportunities in the New England states. In this way New
England benefits twice: once by preventing useful materials from be-
coming waste, and again, by directing these materials locally.The fol-
lowing categories have been selected to ease the use of this direc-
tory, while it is recognized that many other opportunities abound.
BUILDING MATERIALS RESOURCES
Boston ReStore
Address: PO Box 256,10 Harvard St.,
Dorchester, MA 02124
Phone: 617-288-8400
Description: Boston ReStore collects
donated building supplies and office furniture from homeowners
and companies, and stoves/dishwashers found to be in good condi-
tion (and part of a kitchen set). Materials are made available to lower-
income homeowners and nonprofit organizations from the
Dorchester warehouse. Contact: Bill Perkins.
Building Material Resource Center
Address: 100 Terrace St., Roxbury, MA 02102
Phone: 617-442-8917
Description: The BMRC takes in residential construction/demoli-
tion reusables, including over-runs such as vanities, sinks, and tiles.
Materials are available to low to moderate income households only,
at a reduced rate. Contact: Matthew St. Onge.
Fundamental Action to Conserve Energy (FACE)
Website: www.facesave.org.
E-Mail:facebill@facesave.org
Phone: 978-345-5385
Description: The Reuse Project organized by FACE and South Cen-
tral Recycling Association of Massachusetts (SCRAM) and funded by
Rural Utilities Service, made three awards to Massachusetts munici-
palities with drop off programs and plans to increase diversion of
construction and demolition material.As an example, North Brookfleld
13
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used a $2,000 grant with additional local funds to construct a Reuse
Shed. The facility was used during its first week to divert a load of
wood scrap on its way to the landfill.Within two weeks, all the clean
wood had been taken by residents. Contact: Bill Stanwood.
Maine Housing Building Materials Exchange (MHBMX)
Address: 169 Lewiston Rd., Gray, ME 04039
Phone: 207-657-2957
Description: The MHBMX .is a non-profit housing organization
headquartered in Portland, ME. It assists families in need through
social services agencies, churches, and non-profit organizations. The
BME solicits donations of new, used, discarded and surplus building
materials and related items, from manufacturers, suppliers, building/
demolition contractors, and others. Contacts: Kathleen Scott, Elaine
Cederan.
Maine Materials Exchange
(See under Materials Exchange page 9)
Mason Brother Salvage
Address: I I Maple St., Essex, Junction, VT 05452
Phone: 802-879-4221
Description: MBS is a for profit architectural salvage warehouse
that buys materials from renovators, selling in turn to remodelers
who plan to "add character" to a project. Some materials examples:
sinks, toilets, doors, windows, ornate brackets/posts/columns, barn
wood, and wide pine boards. Contact: Ned Gaston.
Recycler's World
(SEE under Reuse Directories page 7)
Residuum
Website: www.sover.net/~reuser
Email: reuser@sover.net
Address: 70 Smith St., Barre.VT 05641
Phone: 802-479-9341
Description: Residuum is an online service that accepts new and
used building materials. Call for materials listing. Contact: Cindy
Blakeslee.
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Surplus & Scrap Wood Products Exchange
(SEE under Materials Exchange page 9)
Western Massachusetts Materials Exchange
(SEE under Materials Exchange page 10)
COMPUTER EQUIPMENT
There are a variety of organizations that
reuse or recycle computer equipment. The
following are resources to determine how to
dispose of end-of-life electronic equipment.
Please note to check with your local commu-
nity including school districts, churches and
other community groups.
Computer Reuse and Recycling, April 1999
Website: www.state.nh.us/recycle/homepage.htm
Address: NHGRP, 2 '/2 Beacon St., Concord, NH 03301-4497
Phone: 603-271-1098
Description: This brochure, published by the New Hampshire
Governor's Recycling Program, lists New Hampshire businesses that
reuse/refurbish/recycle computers. It also discusses the New Hamp-
shire Governor's Computers in the Schools Program (CITS), a donation
program that uses state prisoners to refurbish computer equipment
prior to donation in public schools.
What Can I Do with These Old Computers? Listings for
Boston Area
Website: www.epa.gov/region I
Email: beling.christine@epa.gov
Address: U.S. EPA Region I, One Congress St., I 100, SPP, Boston,
MA 02114
Phone: 617-918-1792
Description: Compiled by U.S. EPA .The purpose of this document
is to provide examples of businesses and organizations that pur-
chase or accept donations of computers for reuse and/or recycling.
The Research Library for RCRA was established in 1989 and dis-
seminates information concerning: pollution prevention, waste mini-
mization, and solid waste education. The following are the donation
opportunities listed in this publication.
IS
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Community Resource Management
Address: 20 Union Street, Lynn, MA
Phone: (78l)-598-6003
Description: This is a jobs training program to teach computer re-
furbishment. Contact: John Chapman.
Easter Seals Disabilities Assistance Technologies Program
Address: 484 Main Street, Worcester, MA 01608
Phone: 1-800-922-8290, 508-831-9768
Description: This organization accepts and refurbishes computers
for the disabled in the surrounding area.
East West Education Development Foundation
Address: 55 Temple Place, Boston, MA 02210
Phone: (617)-261-6699
Description: This organization refurbishes computers to distribute
in third world countries. Contact: Wayne King.
Goodwill Industries Inc.
Check your local phone book or www.secondhand.com
Maine Meeting Place/Citizens Action Network: York
County Parent Awareness
Address: 160 Main Street, Sanford, ME
Phone: (207)-324-2337 or (207)-287-7210
Description: This organization accepts and refurbishes computers
for the disabled in the surrounding area.
National Christina Foundation
Address: 591 West Putnam Ave., Greenwich, CT
Phone: (203)-622-6000
Description: This organization accepts and refurbishes computers
for the educational distribution.
New Hampshire College Donation Depot
Address: 2500 N. River Road, Manchester, NH
Phone: 603-645-9622
Description: This organization accepts computer equipment, refur-
bishes and distributes to any not-for-profit organization. Contact:
Frank Eaton.
16.
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Recycle North
Address: 316 Pine Street, Burlington, VT 05402
Phone: (802)-658-4l43
Description: This organization is a jobs training program to teach
computer refurbishment,
TecsChange
Website: www.tecschange.org
Address: 83 Highland St., Roxbury, MA 02120
Phone: 617-442-4456
Description: This organization accepts computers as donations for
project, Computers for Social Change.
Businesses often generate off-specification
products, end runs and other materials that
are traditionally disposed of as waste. The
following organizations work to utilize this type
of materials in the arts and education.
Central Vermont Surplus Directory
Address: The Restore, 186 River St., Montpelier,VT 05602
Phone: 802-229-1930
Description: Published in 1999 by the Restore, this booklet pro-
vides information on where to take surplus stuff. Listings include
businesses which handle appliances, art/educational supplies, build-
ing materials, office equipment, sporting equipment, and toys. Con-
tact: Connie Leach Bisson.
The Coalition
Description: The Coalition is now in its planning stages. It promotes
partnerships between businesses and schools to improve education
and to encourage a spirit of conservation and thoughtful use of re-
sources. It endeavors to educate teachers in the creative potential of
"waste" materials, by focusing the mind of the individual through the
use of the hands, in teaching science, math, and celebrating the arts.
For more information, contact any of the following member organi-
zations, which accept industrial over-runs/discards/donations appli-
cable for arts & crafts projects and/or other educational projects.
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Boston Children's Museum
Address: 300 Congress St., Boston, MA 02210
Phone: 617-426-6500, ext. 388
Contact: Corey Smigliani.
Children's Re-Source Center
Address: In process of moving
Phone: 617-484-9290
Contacts: Sylvia Murphy, Dottie Keosaian.
The Creative Resource Center
Address: 1153 W. Lowell Ave., Haverhill, MA 01832
Phone: 978-372-2182
Contact: Debbie Redding-Sampson.
Community Resource Center
Address: 38 Montvale Ave., Suite 330, Stoneham, MA 02180
Phone: 781-279-4658
Contact: Diane Edwards.
Dedham High School
Address: 140 Whiting Ave., Dedham, MA 02026
Contact: Catherine Carney.
Extras for Education
Address: Brighton High School, 25 Warren St., Brighton, MA
02135
Phone: 617-635-8284
Contact: Hugh Halsey.
ReCreate
Address: 93 Rear Mt. Hope St., Lowell, MA 01854
Phone: 978-458-2738, 978-937-0820
Contacts: Teresa Harrison, Karen Talbot.
Recycle for Children
Address: 34 Front St., Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Phone: 413-543-5061
Contact: Barbara Rosenbaum.
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Worcester Public Schools Recycle Center
Address: 21 I Providence St., Worcester, MA 06607-1 199
Phone: 508-799-3629
Contact: Mary Pichierri.
New Hampshire Donation Depot
Website: www.nhc.edu/admin/donate/donate.htm
Address: New Hampshire College, Manchester, NH
Phone: 603-695-9622 , 603-224-1517
Description: This organization accepts equipment and inventory
donations from industries and corporations. Schools, social service
organizations, towns/cities, human service agencies, and other non-
profits may select what they need from the warehouse, at no cost.
Office supplies, arts & craft supplies, computers, equipment, ancf parts
are welcome. Contacts: Frank Eaton, Mark Toussaint.
Educational Assistance, Ltd.
Website: www.glen-ellyn.com/eal
Address: PO Box 3021, Glen Ellyn, IL 60138
Phone: 708-690-0010
Description: This organization makes corporate equipment dona-
tions available to approximately 170 colleges and universities. The
schools accepts the material, and agree to award a tuition scholar-
ship in the corporation's name.
Industrial Surplus Network
Address: 9 Bridgeham Ave., Suite 300,Watertown, MA 02472
Phone: 617-484-6771
Description :This for profit corporation buys and sells inventory
in the New England area. It promotes and facilitates the donation of
surplus inventories to not-for-profit organizations for use by that
not-for-profit or resale by the not-for-profit to raise funds. Contact:
Larry Sprague
Investment Recovery Association
Website: www.invrecovery.org/about.htmI
Address: 5800 Foxridge Dr., Suite 115, Mission, Kansas 66202-
2333
Phone: 913-262-4597
Description: Investment recovery is the practice of recouping the
value of assets no longer needed by a company by identifying and
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reusing or disposing of surplus assets. Investment recovery profes-
sionals can earn a professional accreditation from IRA called Certi-
fied Manager of Investment Recovery. This organization represents
more than 200 companies with investment recovery departments,
and provides ongoing education, training and networking opportuni-
ties to members.
Massachusetts Surplus Inventory Donation Program
Website: www.wastecap.org/wastecap/services&projects.htm
Address: 376 Boylston Street, 3rd Floor, Boston, MA 021 16
Phone: 617-236-7715
Description: The Surplus Inventory Donation Program encourages
companies to donate surplus inventory to WasteCap to be resold.
National Association for the Exchange of Industrial
Resources (NAEIR)
Website: www.ida-assoc.org/naeir.htm
Email: member@naeir.org or donor@naeir.org
Address: 560 McClure Street, Galesburg, IL 61401
Toll Free Number: 800-562-0955
Description: NAEIR is an organization that collects and processes
donations of new, top quality merchandise from American corpora-
tions. Materials are redistributed to qualified schools and non-profits
across the United States.
Recycling for Rhode Island Education
Website: www.rrie.org
Address: PO Box 6264, Providence, Rl 02940
Phone: 401-781-1521
Description: RRIE has a 6 year history of collecting and recycling
manufacturers' safe, non-toxic byproducts, overruns, and scraps. It
distributes these materials to teachers, parents, and other member
organizations who teach or work with kids. Call or visit website for
scheduled hours of operation. Contact: Priscilla.
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CONSUME^GOODS
There are a variety of consumer goods,
ranging from cars, bikes, furniture, clothing,
etc...that have many outlets for reuse. There
are many local outlets as well including school
and church rummage sales and other local
charities.
American Lung Association Vehicle Donation Program
Website: www.lungusa.org/events/vdp.html
Toll Free Number: 800-577-LUNG (800-577-5864)
Description: ALA accepts vehicle donations. Call the above num-
ber for pickup information.
Bikes Not Bombs
Website: www.igc.org/bikesnotbombs
Address: 59 Amory St., #103, Roxbury, MA 021 19
Phone: 617-442-0004, 617-445-2439
Description: BNB salvages used bicycles.The organization also runs
a Bicycle Recycling and Youth Training Center in Roxbury's Egleston-
Jackson neighborhood.Through the Earn-A-B/ke program, young par-
ticipants learn safe riding, bike repair, and urban environmentalism
while repairing a bicycle they get to keep at the programs's end. Con-
tact: Genevieve Howe.
Boys and Girls Club
Website: www.bbbsa.org/
Toll free Number: I-800-710-9145
Description: The Boys and Girls Club accepts vehicle donations,
and toy and clothing donations. Call the above number for collection
and pickup information.
Cambridge Furniture Bank
Address: PO Box 391349, 1151 Mass.Ave., Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: 617-492-0300
Description: Located at the Old Cambridge Baptist Church, the
CFB solicits and collects donated household furnishings/appliances,
sorts/stores them, and makes them available to people moving out of
homelessness.
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Davis Research Foundation
Website: www.help-kids-read.org/cars.htm
Email: carprogram@aol.com
Toll Free Number: 1-800-513-6560
Description: DRF accepts vehicle donations. Call the above num-
ber for pickup information.
Easter Seals Automobile Donation Program
Website: www.vehicledonation.com/
Toll Free Number: 1-888-631-6833
Description: Easter Seals accepts vehicle donations. Call the above
number for pickup information.
Gifts In-Kind America
Email: Productdonations@gtftsinkind.org
Address: 700 N. Fairfax St., Suite 300, Arlington, VA 22314
Phone: 703-836-2121
Description: Gifts In-Kind America operates a program that matches
donations from companies with a network of 50,000 non-profit or-
ganizations. As many as 500 companies make donations of used of-
fice equipment, supplies, clothing, and other products. GIKA will as-
sist large companies in developing a strategy for dealing with items
that are no longer needed by the company.
Good News Garage
Address: Burlington.VT
Phone: 802-864-3667
Description: The Good News Garage accepts cars 10 years and
younger and.in working condition.
Goodwill National Locator Directory
Website: www.goodwill.org/STATES/Map.htm
Description: For those with web access, follow the instructions on
the website to locate the closest Goodwill donation depot . For
those without access, call regional headquarters at the following num-
bers:
VT: No listings during creation date of this document
Northern NH/Mame: 207-774-6323 (Portland, ME)
Southern NH/Northern MA: 508-459-0351 (Lowell, MA)
Berkshires MA area: 413-442-0061,413-442-0633 (Pittsfield, MA)
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Springfield/Hartford Area: 413-788-6981 (Springfield, MA)
Boston, MA Area: 617-541-1256 (Boston, MA)
Western CT: 203- 368-6511 (Bridgeport, CT)
Rl Area: 401-861-2080 (N. Providence, Rl)
Greater Springfield HELP
Address: 718 State St., Springfield, MA 01109
Phone: 413-263-6500
Description: GS Help Collects and redistributes used furniture to
non-profits and low-income residents of the Greater Springfield area.
Contact: Synthia Mitchell.
Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless
Address: 288 A Street, 4th Fl., Boston, MA 02210
Phone: 617-737-3508
Description: The MCH collects furniture. Their primary interest
includes sofas, sofa beds, coffee/end tables, dining room/kitchen sets,
dressers, and nightstands. Furniture must be in usable condition "as
is." The MCH accepts smaller household items (i.e. appliances, elec-
tronics) and linens, if a major piece of furniture is donated. Federally
approved highchairs, cribs, playpens, and strollers are also accepted.
Call the number above for more information. Contact: Bill Homan
National Kidney Foundation
Website: www.kidney.org/funds/cars.cfm
Toll Free Number: I-800-488-CARS
Description: The NKF accepts vehicle donations. Call the above
number for pickup information.
National Vehicle Donations Programs Online
Website: www.auto-donation.com
Description: From this site a.donation organization can be chosen
for unwanted cars, trucks, boats, and airplanes.The following educa-
tion information is also provided: What's Involved in Making a Dona-
tion, Frequently Asked Questions, and Program Benefits.
New England Shelter for Homeless Veterans
Address: 17 Court St., Boston
Phone: 617-248-9400
Description: This organization accepts clothing donations. Call the
above number for collection information.
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Pine St. Inn
Address: 444 Harrison Ave., Boston
Phone: 617-983-5686
Description: This organization serves as a homeless shelter . It ac-
cepts clothing donations, and some food donations may also be ac-
ceptable. Call for collection information.
Planet Aid
Website: www.planetaid.org
Email: fred@pianetaid.org
Address: 250 Canal St., Lawrence, MA 01840
Phone: 978-794-9611
Description: This organization has over 600 clothing drop off col-
lection boxes in Eastern Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode
Island, where local residents can donate clothes 24 hours a day.
.Recycle North
Address: PO Box 158, Burlington,VT 05402
Phone: 802-658-4143
Description: RN accepts donations of goods from businesses/indi-
viduals, repairs, and redistributes them for resale. Acceptable materi-
als include household items such as furnishings and appliances. Con-
tact; Tom Longstretch.
Rhode Island Donation Exchange Program
Address: 20 River Ave., Providence, Rl 02908
Phone: 401-831-5511
Description: This organization solicits manufacturers and
homeowners for furniture, clothing, and building materials. It ware-
houses and redistributes donations to needy R.I. individuals or fami-
lies. Some household goods are sold through a thrift store.
St. Vincent de Paul Society
Address: 1280 Washington St., Boston, MA
Toll Free Number: 1-800-820-7837
Description: This organization collects clothing for the poor. Cer-
tain types of furniture donations may also be acceptable.
Salvation Army: USA East Locator Directory
Website: www.salvationarmy-usaeast.org/locations/TSsearch.htm
Address: 440 W. Nyack Rd., W. Nyack, NY 10994-1739
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Phone: 914-620-7200
Description: This resource is an online directory for the Salvation
Army. Follow the directions on this website to select state listings.
For those without access to the web, call the number above.
Spare Change : Massachusetts Journal of the Streets
Website: www.way.net/hep
Address: Old Cambridge Baptist Church, MSI Mass.Ave.,
Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: 617- 497 - 1595 / 1064
Description: Spore Change is a publication for and by the homeless
community of Boston, sponsored by the Homeless Empowerment
Project (HEP). Sold in the Boston area for $ 1.00 weekly, the Helping
Hands column lists charities/help groups/agencies that come to the
aid of the homeless and poor. The organizations listed accept items
for reuse, including food, clothing, toys, furniture, and appliances.
FOOD
There are many opportunities to donate
unwanted food to local area shelters that are not
listed here. The following is a listing of larger
organizations that accept food donations.
Fair Foods
Address: 3 Nottingham/200 Geneva Avenue, Dorchester, MA
02121
Phone: 617-825-3959, 282-0728, 288-6185
Description: Fair Foods accepts food donations. Call the above num-
ber for collection information.
Foodchain
Website: www.foodchain.org
Address: 912 Baltimore Ave., Suite 300, Kansas City, MO 64105
Toll Free Number: 800-845-3008
Description: This organization provides a nation-wide listing of food
programs which distribute surplus food to those in need through
nearly 50,000 food pantries, soup kitchens, homeless shelters, and
other social service organizations. Foodchain focuses on donations
of prepared and perishable food.
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Greater Boston Food Chain
Address: 99 Atkinson St., Boston, MA 021 18
Phone: 617-427-5200
DescriptionrThe GBFC accepts food donations. Call the above num-
ber for collection information.
Second Harvest
Website: http://www.secondharvest.org
Address: I 16 S. Michigan Ave., Suite 4, Chicago, IL 60603
Description: Second Harvest distributes surplus food to those in
need through 50,000 food pantries, soup kitchens, homeless shel-
ters, and other social service organizations. Second Harvest works
mainly with the food industry to distribute surplus food inventories.
The Website provides a Food Bank Locator, and for those without
web access:
CT, New Haven: 203-469-5000
CT, Windsor: 860-688-6500
MA, Boston: 617-427-5200
MA, Hatfield: 413-247-9738
MA, Shrewsbury: 508-842-3663
ME, Lewiston: 207-782-3554
NH, Manchester: 603-669-6821
Rl, Warwick: 401-826-3073
VT, S. Barre: 802-476-3341
MEDICAL DEVICES, EQUIPM^TLJLSUPPLIES
The following are organizations that utilize unwanted
medical devices, equipment and supplies ranging
from eyeglasses to hospital equipment.
Carelift International, Inc.
Website: www.carelift.org
Email: information@carelift.org
Address: GSB Bldg., I Belmont Ave., Suite 425,
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Phone: 610-617-0995
Description: Operation Carelift was developed to
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receive hospital donations, and collects medical supplies/equipment,
which are sent to needy hospitals overseas. Call or email for more
information.
Hear Now; Hearing Aid Collections
Website: www.leisurelan.com/hearnow
Address: 9745 E. Hamden Ave., Suite 300, Denver, CO 80231
Toll Free Number: 800-648-HEAR (800-648-4327)
Description: Hear Now collects hearing aids donated via the mail,
in padded envelopes. A return address should be included if a dona-
tion receipt it to be used for income tax purposes.
Heart to Heart: Pacemaker Reuse Option
Address: 220 34th St.,W. Billings, MT 59102
Description: Heart to Heart is a pacemaker recovery organization
that uses doctors from the United States to hand-deliver pacemak-
ers to doctors in Israel, Sweden, Canada, Asia, the Caribbean, and
Africa. Non-irriplanted devices such as the telemetry transmitters
(for monitoring and resetting pacemakers) are also acceptable dona-
tions.
Hingham Rotary Club
Address: PO Box 39, Hingham, MA 02043
Description: Hingham Rotary recovers operating equipment in-
cluding x-ray machines and kidney dialysis machines. Contact: Rich-
ard Bridges.
Lions Club International "Sight First" Program
Description: In most communities, the local Lions Club recycles
eye-glasses. For Communities without a Lions Club, mail them to
Operation Eyesight Universal 4 Parkdale Crescent NW, Calgary,
Alberta T2N 3T8, Canada.
Mass Eye and Ear Optical Shop
Address: 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02144
Phone: 617-573-3182
Description: This organization collected old eyeglasses and distrib-
utes them in to individuals in need locally and in third world coun-
tries.
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New Eyes for the Needy
Address: 549 Millburn Ave., Short Hills, NJ
Phone: 201-376-4903
Description: Eyes for the Needy collects used eyeglasses.
Pine St. Inn Nurse's Clinic/New England Shelter for
Homeless Veterans
Address: Listed in sections above
Phone: 617-521-7214/617-248-9400
Description: The Inn accepts the following donations: crutches, canes,
braces, walkers, and unopened cartons of bandages. Call for collec-
tion information.
Requipment Catalog
Phone: 802-229-0501
Description: Run by the Vermont Center for Independent Living,
this classified advertising/database is a resource for used adaptive
equipment/medical devices.
The Wheelchair Society
Address: Washington, DC
Phone: 310-495-0277
Description: This organization accepts and refurbishes wheelchairs
and walking aids.
There are a variety of local and state programs that
promote reuse, including swap shops and surplus
inventory programs.The following are listings of New
England State programs.
Massachusetts Reuse Sheds and Swap Shops
Website: www.state.ma.us/dep/recycle/recycle.html
Email: John.Cnsley@state.ma.us
Address: MA Department of Environmental Protection, I Winter
St., Boston, MA 02108
Toll free number: 1-800-800-6881
Description: Several Massachusetts municipalities have "reuse
sheds" or "swap shops" located at their transfer stations. Call the
number above for more information.
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New Hampshire Federal Surplus Property Office
Address: 144 Clinton St., Concord, NH 03301
Phone: 603-271-3241
Description: The FSPP collects surplus from the State's Govern-
ment Offices and Programs. School districts, municipalities, as well as
other approved agencies may purchase from this program. Items
valued under $100.00 are often sold to the public at a building called
"The White Barn." For catalog listings/hours, call the number above.
Swap Shop Starter Kit: A Guide to Help Small Towns
Start Reuse Programs at Transfer Stations
Website: www.cet-ecotech.org
Address: CET, 112 Elm St., Pittsfield, MA 01201
Phone: 413-445-4556, 413-586-7350
Description: Managed by the Center for Ecological Technology
(CET), this kit provides case studies of successful municipal reuse
centers, including budget .information, site maps, and photos.
Vermont Solid Waste Districts
Website: www.anr.state.vt.us/dec/waste.htm
Description: A number of Vermont's solid waste management dis-
tricts have reuse facilities for their district members. For more infor-
mation, contact the districts individually:
Addison County: Laura Routh, Waste Reduction Coordinator
802-388-2333
Bennington Regional Planning Commission: Nate Williams,
SW Coordinator 802-375-9964
Central Vermont: Debbie Fyffe, Recycling/Hazardous Waste
Manager. 802-479-4363
Chitteden: Lee Tuure,Waste Reduction Program 802-872-8100
Greater Upper Valley: Sami Izzo, Program Director 802-649-
2610
Joint Municipal SW Alternative Committee: Pamela Clapp,
Administrator .802-235-9353
Lamoille Regionakjoyce Majors, Operations Administrator 802-
888-7317
Northeast Kingdom: Alan Pultyniewicz, Recycling Coordina-
tor 802-626-3532
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Northwest Vermont: Mike Loner, Recycling Coordinator 802-
524-5986
Rutland: Dean Wilson, Recycling Coordinator; Eric Pratt, C&D
Waste Coordinator 802-773-4083
S.Windsor/Windham: Mary Williams, Executive Director 603-
543-120!
Waterbury/Mad River SW Alliance: John Maker, Adminis-
trator 802-244-7373
White River Alliance: Del Cloud.Administrator 802-234-9340
Windham: William MacDonald, Materials Marketing 802-257-
0272
Vermont Surplus Property
Website: www.bgs.state.vt.us/gsc/surplus
Address: 375 River St., Montpelier,VT 05602
Email: terry.francis@state.vt.us
Phone: 802-828-3394
Description: The State of Vermont has a Surplus Property Program.
For more information, call the number above. Contact:Terry Francis
REUSE SUCCESS STORIES
Bikes Not Bombs
has salvaged over 16,000 used bicycles during its 15 year history,
and sent them to grassroots organizations in Central Africa and the
Carribean.
Carelift International, Inc.
has received donations from more than 140 hospitals in 35 states
and has delivered millions of dollars of medical supplies, equipment,
and pharmaceuticals to needy hospitals overseas.
Extras for Education
diverts approximately 150 tons of industrial over-runs/discards from
landfills each year, and gives away approximately $1.5 million dollars
worth of materials.
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Planet Aid
sent 240 tons of quality second hand clothes to HUMANA People
to People Projects in Angola, in 1998.
Recycling for Rhode Island Education
helps divert more than 1.5 tons of waste from Rhode Island's landfill
each month through a partnership involving more than 60 Rhode
Island businesses and more than 300 schools and other educational
and community organizations.
Second Harvest
solicits and distributes more than one billion pounds of food and
grocery products to Americans in need each year.
DEFINITIONS FOR THIS GUIDE
Materials:
A synonym for commodities, goods, or products.
Materials Exchange:
A network "service" that helps to redirect unwanted equipment,
overruns, rejects, and other materials from businesses to other busi-
nesses, not-for-profits, schools, community groups, and others that
need the materials. These material exchanges usually have a catalog
or computer listing of materials wanted and materials available and
often have a staff available to help facilitate the exchange of materials.
This term is often used synonymously with "waste exchange."
Recycling:
A process of collecting a product or material, separating and pro-
cessing it and then returning it to the economic mainstream in the
form of raw materials; or remelting into a new finished good.
Refurbishing:
A process of making "cosmetic" changes to update the appearance
of a product, such as cleaning, changing fabric, painting or refinishing.
-------
This term is often associated with used office furniture and differs
from re manufacturing in that none of the structural parts of the
product are replaced.
Re manufacturing:
The process of restoring used durable products to "new" condition,
to be used in their original function, by replacing worn or damaged
parts.
Reuse:
The use of a product or material again in its original form or with
little enhancement or change to be utilized again for the same pur-
pose.
Source Reduction:
The practice of reducing the amount of materials used through re-
designing products, changing manufacturing processes, changing pur-
chasing habits, and reusing materials, in order to minimize the quan-
tity and/or toxicity of waste produced from a product or process.
This term is often used synonymously with uwaste reduction."
Waste Exchange:
A network "service" functioning the same way as a "materials ex-
change," redirecting waste materials back into the manufacturing or
reuse process by matching companies generating specific wastes with
companies that use those wastes as manufacturing inputs. This term
is often used synonymously with "materials exchange."
DISCLAIMER
Inclusion of information about an organizations, a product or a
service doesn't not represent endorsements by the United States
Environmental Protection Agency; nor does in represent U.S. EPA
opinion, policy or guidance unless specifically indicated.
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NEW BUSINESS NOTIFICATION FORM
If you know a resource that was not listed in this guide, please return this prepaid card to the U.S.
Enviqrnmental Protection Agency, Region I. We'll contact them to update this list.
I know of a great place to go for:
Commodity
Reuse directory
Material exchange
Repair _
Newspaper Listing Other
Name:
Contact:
Address:
City: State:
Phone:
Zip:
Email:
c/EPA
New England
Thank you for
your response!
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