BinSwap, which provides valet self-storage services throughout the greater Chicago area, has launched a charity program to support to the local chapter of The Salvation Army. Through BinSwap Cares, it’ll now pick up donated items from its customers and transport them to the nearest donation center at no charge. To be eligible, customers must store at least one bin with the company.
BinSwap will provide donation bags and accept items of up to 50 pounds, according to a press release. Acceptable items include clothing, small household items and appliances. A receipt for tax purposes is supplied upon pickup. The donations will support The Salvation Army’s Adult Rehabilitation Centers, which assists those struggling with alcohol and drug addiction.
“Spring cleaning is not just a time to store what you no longer use through the summer months, but it’s also a time to donate items you no longer need,” said Alex Pearsall, who co-founded BinSwap with Angus Frost. “We are providing an easy, convenient way to do both—to store winter clothes, sporting equipment and more until they are needed, as well as to give away items to those in need.”
BinSwap launched with community service as part of its model. The company initially donated 25 percent of proceeds to local schools chosen by each customer. It has since expanded its philanthropic efforts to other initiatives, including the Oak Park Festival Theater and Roscoe Village Neighborhood.
The Salvation Army has been serving communities around the world with local programs and initiatives aimed at immediate relief, short-term care and long-term growth since 1865. The organization has more than 1.7 million members.
Launched in January, BinSwap serves more than 45 Chicago neighborhoods. The company uses an online platform that allows customers to schedule item pickup, maintain a visual catalog of stored belongings, and schedule delivery of specific bins or bulky items to their home.
