Your pre-spring cleanout can benefit local nonprofits and the individuals in our community who depend on their services.
By Lana Pierce
Pack up the ornaments. Sweep up the confetti. Now comes two months of cold weather and a return to routine. The infant weeks of 2026 offer many of us the time—maybe even the motivation—to spring into cleaning before the first blooms return. In these frigid months, we can bolster that deep cleaning with altruism. Throughout Hot Springs, churches, non-profits, and charitable groups are seeking specific items at a time when donation drives are sputtering. But your pre-spring cleaning can help innumerable people in Garland County.
Though this is a short list, many more agencies and thrift stores are not mentioned here. This list reflects a few of my favorites, where donation turnaround time is almost immediate.
Bedding, pillows, sheets: The Jackson House Thrift Shop, located next door to Jackson House (705 Malvern) outfits the unhoused and those on limited incomes with these, as well as blankets, scarves, gloves, and any other warm items.
Food, napkins, containers: Jackson House Outreach, 705 Malvern, feeds Hot Springs’ needy daily.
Women’s and Kids’ Clothing: Potter’s Clay, at 1013 Malvern Avenue, has long been a staple in town for providing resources to women and children in crisis.
Men’s Clothing, Shoes, Hygiene Supplies: This is my husband’s favorite. A faith-based shelter, Samaritan Ministries of Hot Springs, gives clothing, food, and a bed to homeless men in our area. Located at 131 Sanford.
Backpacks, blankets, shoes, socks, and gloves: Visit the Hot Springs Community Resource Center, described online as a “central hub connecting residents with essential services.” They also offer warming shelter hours and food when available. (Dog food donations are distributed to unhoused individuals with pets.) 109 Hobson Ave.
Leashes, bowls, pet beds, pet medicines, toys: My own favorite, Animal Control will accept your late pet’s things to distribute to animals awaiting homes. Donations accepted weekday afternoons at 319 Davidson Drive.
Backpacks, sports equipment, shoes, socks, underwear: Many local schools accept donations for everything from school supplies to costumes for theater classes. Check with your local schools to see what is needed!
Luggage, totes, backpacks: Agencies involved with foster children accept these. Check local listings of entities working in foster care.
Adult diapers, medical supplies, potty chairs, crutches, wheelchairs, etc.: National Park Medical Center recently began accepting items to distribute to patients in need. Contact Sheila Foreman, Case Management Coordinator, at 501.620.2547.
Lana Pierce is owner of RetroFit, 315 Ouachita. She will accept donations for any of the above agencies and deliver them for you.
