As we get ready for our annual Marin Gives Back, we’ve selected a handful of local charities that you can donate to in support of the Marin community. Not seeing your favorite one? Reach out to us at editorial@marinmagazine.com and we can include them here.
Marin Foster Care Association
The Marin Foster Care Association connects children in need of secure homes with families who are passionate about helping underprivileged children in the community. MFCA supports traditional foster families, foster-to-adopt families, relative and non-relative care providers, also known as Resource Families. You can donate to MFCA through direct payment donations on their website, donating stock and gift matching. For physical donations, email donations@marinfostercare.org. You can find a list of items needed and not needed on their website, or you can shop their Amazon Wishlist and have donations sent directly to their office headquarters in San Rafael.
Bloom Marin
Bloom Marin is a unique nonprofit that is partnered with the YWCA in San Rafael. They provide a week’s worth of work and everyday use outfits for those that cannot afford it. Bloom accepts clothing donations in-store on Wednesdays and Fridays, and lists and guidelines of accepted donations can be found on the Bloom Marin website. You can also donate by purchasing items from their Amazon Wishlist or by donating online.
Make It Home Bay Area
Make It Home Bay Area is a nonprofit and Certified California Green Business that provides gently used furniture and household goods to those in need. Items donated must be from a non-smoking household and be in ready-to-use condition. Donations must be safe, clean, odor free and fully assembled. Appointments are required for all physical donations made, and online payment donations as well as specific lists and guidelines for what can be donated can be found on their website.
Adopt A Family Of Marin
Founded in 1989, Adopt A Family Of Marin provides basic assistance to families in need through subsidies for rental assistance, food, auto repair and many other financial necessities. You can donate directly to the cause through their website or purchase items from their Amazon Wishlist. You can also make physical donations at their office location in San Rafael. All physical donations must be new and follow the criteria listed on the website.
Community Action Marin
Community Action advocates for children and family services and economic, food and housing justice. If you would like to donate to Community Action Marin, you can directly donate to the cause through their website or by mailing a check. Other options include gift matching and donating vehicles, stocks and real estate.
West Marin Community Services
For over 40 years, West Marin Community Services has provided food, clothing, finance assistance and youth programming to those in need. The food pantry is open every weekday, and year-round donations can be brought to the food bank during hours of operation. You can also donate any grocery bags you have left over from your grocery shopping so long as they are dry. West Marin Community Services also has a thrift store where you can donate your gently used clothing, shoes, kitchenware, accessories, toys, books and decor. Vehicles, boats, stocks and/or direct donations can be made through their website or by mailing a check to their P.O. box.
Homeward Bound of Marin
Homeward Bound of Marin provides housing services to those in need in Marin County. They welcome over 1,000 community members each year across 18 programs and provide them with safe housing accommodations, job training, and support for overall well being. To donate directly to the cause, you can go to their website, mail a check or donate by phone. For physical donations, you can email volunteer@hbofm.org or call 415.382.3363. There are some limitations and criteria needed to be met for specific items, so be sure to check out their website for guidance.
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