Freecycle is an international collection of over 5,000 local email groups for the purpose of giving away stuff to folks who live nearby.  It boasts over 9 million members worldwide, which makes me feel a bit less special for being one of them, but that’s okay.

Before I downsized by moving to Greenbelt I had lots of STUFF to get rid of and used Takoma Park Freecycle just about weekly for a while, successfully finding new homes for the dressing table and couch above, plus lots more.

And since moving here I’ve joined the Greenbelt Freecycle Network to give away still more stuff, only once failing to find a taker (for a particularly ugly – I suppose – but super-comfy armchair that I’d really hate to see filling up a landfill somewhere, so I’ll keep trying).

Avoiding the landfill while giving people things they need feels really, really good.   Chinese proverb:  If you always give, you will always have.

Here’s the mission of the Greenbelt Freecycle group and how it all works

Our mission is to reduce waste by connecting people who are throwing away goods with others who are seeking the same goods. Whether you’re looking to discard or acquire an item, you’ve come to the right place. Computers, furniture, clothing, magazines – no yitem is too big or too small. Since this is a FREEcycle list, ALL items must be 100% FREE.

OFFER: thingamajig (Your General Location)
TAKEN: thingamajig (Used in conjunction with Offer)
WANTED: thingamajig (Please use this sparingly and don’t offer money)
RECEIVED: thingamajig (Used in response to Wanted)

To contact the moderators please email at: Freecyclegreenbelt-owner@yahoogroups.com.