The ability to give is a beautiful thing. The ability to give someone your “trash” is a shame.
Lets put something into perspective; if you give someone something because it’s of no use to you anymore (old, not working right) then its not charity – it’s just a really nice way to dispose of your crap.
I work with computers for a living and I have seen my fare share of crap. People seem to think that if it’s a box that resembles a computer and there are computer parts inside that box then obviously someone, somewhere will benefit. Note to that person: people aren’t thankful for having a 60 pound paperweight in their living room or establishment.
I respond to a lot of calls where a donation has taken place. When I arrive on the scene the person on the receiving side of the transaction is usually informed by an agitated Ron saying “sorry pal, it’s not even worth my time fixing it.”
This being said, what then is charity?
My trusty Webster dictionary says:
Generosity and helpfulness especially toward the needy or suffering; also : aid given to those in need b : an institution engaged in relief of the poor c : public provision for the relief of the needy
Words like helpfulness. When you give something it should AT LEAST be helpful to the person receiving it. If you’re going to be helpful, know the need and meet it, don’t be helpful to yourself and give the crap that’s growing cobwebs in your closet.
Also, in our definition you see that charity is for those in need. Now, most people will argue what is and isn’t “needy.” I personally believe that a person who has lots of money can still be in just as much need as a person who is in needs of a drink and a place to sleep.
Non obvious needs are sometimes the direst.