Women in Distress is uniquely positioned to partner with organizations to help them dispose of lost and found merchandise in a manner that actually helps the South Florida community. From large organizations like airports and malls to small businesses, Women In Distress can be a partner to ensure that lost and found items are disposed of in an ethical, transparent manner while benefiting the South Florida community.
As a 501(c)(3) charity, Women In Distress is the only state-certified and accredited domestic violence agency serving South Florida. Donors to Lost and Found for Good! can be assured that their donations are used to make a difference right here in South Florida.
Items donated benefit our mission in multiple ways
Provided directly to survivors of domestic violence in our shelter.
Women In Distress operates one of the largest emergency shelters in the nation and it is not uncommon for victims to arrive at our doors with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Cell phones, clothing, and basic everyday items can help a victim transition to a new life free of domestic violence.
Sold at our Thrift Store location.
The Women In Distress Thrift Store, Blooming Sales, in Margate is an important revenue stream, allowing us to provide all services free of charge. Donated items for which there is not a current need are sold through the Thrift Store and 100% of proceeds go to support the mission of the agency. Also, survivors being served by Women In Distress are able to “shop for free” in the Thrift Store.
Sold online.
Some items, particularly cell phones, are sold online through the Thrift Store. As with other items sold in the Thrift Store, 100% of proceeds go to support the work of Women In Distress.
Q&A
Are donations to Women In Distress tax deductible?
Donations to Women In Distress are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. We are a 501(c)(3) charity as designated by the IRS.
Is Women In Distress a reputable charity?
Women In Distress has been serving victims of domestic violence in South Florida for almost 50 years. We are the only nationally accredited, state-certified, full-service domestic violence center serving Broward County. This means that The Council on Accreditation (COA) has verified that Women In Distress consistently operates with integrity, credibility, and the utmost level of quality.
Will items donated to Lost & Found for Good! actually help survivors of domestic violence?
Yes, in one of several ways. Whether provided directly to a survivor or sold, all donations help make our life-saving services and shelter available to victims free of charge.
Will you pick up our lost and found items?
Yes, we will schedule pick up on a routine basis, or as needed. Items may also be dropped off at our Thrift Store location at 1372 N State Road 7, Margate, FL 33063
How long must my organization keep lost and found items before donating them?
Many public agencies have policies guiding disposal of lost and found items. Most private businesses and organizations hold items for 30-90 days to allow time for retrieval by property owner.
What items may we donate to Lost & Found for Good!
You can donate practically anything that is in good condition. From clothes to phones to accessories – we can use it!
Must cell phones be factory restored before donation?
While this I encouraged, it is not necessary. Any phone provided at a survivor of domestic violence is completely wiped of data and restored. Those sold are either wiped of data or sold only “for parts.”
My organization requires a receipt for all items donated, do you provide one?
Yes. Donation receipts are available for any donation, including the Lost and Found for Good! Program.
Must clothing be cleaned before donation?
No. It is always appreciated, but never required.
Please contact Maddison Clyne
Associate Director of Development, Events & Annual Fund
954-760-9800 x1436
mclyne@womenindistress.org