Donation FAQ

What food items do you need most?
Click this link to view our list of most-needed food items.

What everyday essential items do you need most?
Click this link to view our list of most-needed everyday essential item.

Why don’t you take clothing donations anymore?
In order to keep staff focused on caring well for the needs of our campus guests and community neighbors, Water Street has partnered with thrift store experts – CommunityAid – to care for our guests’ clothing needs.

When you donate your new or gently used items to CommunityAid on behalf of Water Street, CommunityAid donates a portion of their profits to us. Not only that, but they donate gift cards to their thrift store so our guests can shop for free!
Click this link to find out more about clothing donations.

Do you take handmade items (hats, scarves, blankets)?
We appreciate the time and care you put into creating handmade items. While these items are fashionable and lovely, they do not adequately protect guests in negative degree weather and wind chill.

What kinds of items do you NOT accept?
Click this link to see a list of donated items we do not currently accept at Water Street.

Where can I donate the gently used items that Water Street is unable to receive?
If you have items we are not able to receive at Water Street, we would love to connect you with an organization that can!
Click this link to see a list of possible organizations.

Where do I drop off my food/everyday essential donations?
You can bring your item donations to our Water Street Mission loading dock. Click the Drop Off Map button above to see where it is located on our campus.

What are your loading dock hours?
Our loading dock is open Monday-Saturday: 7:00am-5:30pm.

What if there isn’t a person on the loading dock to receive my donation?
If you would like to receive a receipt for your item donation or receive other assistance with your item donation, please ring the bell by the loading dock.

How do I make a financial donation to Water Street?
Click the Donate Financially button above to make a donation online.

Can I donate items to Water Street in exchange for court-ordered community service hours?
Check with your court official to determine if this is an option for you. If yes, please make sure to ask for a receipt at our loading dock. You will submit this to the court as proof of your donation.

If you have questions re: donating items or donation drives, contact Heather Ross at hross@wsm.org

If you have questions re: financial donations, contact Sharon Houck at shouck@wsm.org