Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in Saint Louis, MO

Our basement and garage are filled with old toys, clothes, books, baby items, old computers and other stuff that has accumulated over the years. I made a New Year's resolution to get rid of at least half of the stuff sitting unused in our house without throwing it all in the trash. I believe in recycling or donating things as often as possible and keeping perfectly good used items out of a landfill.With this in mind, I found local resources that take donations and recycle or reuse them.

Web Innovations and Technology Services is a non-profit organization that recycles old computers, televisions and other electronics. W.I.T.S. refurbishes equipment when possible and places donations back in the community for educational use. There are two locations, one in St. Louis and one in Danville, Illinois and more information on donation sight hours can be found on their web site or by calling 314-382-1650

St. Louis Crisis Nursery is an organization which prevents child abuse and neglect by providing a temporary place for children when parents have no where else to turn. This short-term emergency shelter helps families in emergency situations and also works with families to improve their circumstances. The Crisis Nursery accepts gently used toys, baby gear, furniture, clothes, books and other house hold items. For information on dropping off items, contact the administrative offices at 314-292-5770.

Habitat for Humanity's ReStore accepts used and new building materials. We have some shingles and boards left over from a rehab project and they will be finding a new home at the ReStore. Habitat for Humanity helps build decent, affordable housing and move people away from substandard living environments. Donated materials helps the organization raise money and can be resold at a good price to others in the community at the reasale store. Pick up service is available for large or grouped items. Please call 314-531-4155 to ensure the store needs your particular donated items.

MERS Goodwill is where I donate most of my family's unneeded items. Goodwill has many convenient drop off sights There are forty sights in the St. Louis area and revenue is invested back into the community with job training and other programs. Goodwill takes most things, including car and boat donations, but will not take mattresses, car parts, food, large appliances or personal care items.

The St. Patrick Center is located in downtown St. Louis at 800 North Tucker Blvd. It is the largest provider of homeless services in Missouri and works with those without homes or those at risk of losing their homes. The center needs many items for those its serves including clothes, personal care items, toys and baby care items. Donations can be dropped off at the Hadley Street receiving dock Monday through Friday from 8am-4pm.