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07-28-06, 12:49 PM
My local newspaper had an interesting article last week. Seems the WalMart in town has removed the red-and-white checked USAgain shoe and clothing collection box from their parking lot. Since WalMart had the box removed, I've seen three others spring up in town.
Do they have these boxes in your town?
Most people aren't aware that, when they drop their used clothing in those boxes, they are not donating to a legitimate not-for-profit charity. In fact, they are giving their items to a company that resells them in 3rd world countries for a profit.
Also, in spite of the name USAgain (pronounced "Use Again") and the American flag that adorns every box, the company is not American. USAgain belongs to a Danish organization called TVind. TVind is sometimes called a "secular cult" because they are not religious, but they have a highly secretive organization. The leadership of TVind are under investigation in Denmark for fraud and tax evasion.
There is plenty of information about USAgain and TVind on the 'net if you want to check them out.
I guess the point I want to make is that we should be aware. There are many legit not-for-profits that accept donations of clothing...local clothing pantries, the Salvation Army, GoodWill Industries, church charities, etc. When I donate used clothing, it will be to one of these groups.
I know that the large not-for-profits also sometimes sell donated clothes overseas. The difference, of course, is that they use the money to provide real relief, and not to enrich a corrupt leadership.
Do they have these boxes in your town?
Most people aren't aware that, when they drop their used clothing in those boxes, they are not donating to a legitimate not-for-profit charity. In fact, they are giving their items to a company that resells them in 3rd world countries for a profit.
Also, in spite of the name USAgain (pronounced "Use Again") and the American flag that adorns every box, the company is not American. USAgain belongs to a Danish organization called TVind. TVind is sometimes called a "secular cult" because they are not religious, but they have a highly secretive organization. The leadership of TVind are under investigation in Denmark for fraud and tax evasion.
There is plenty of information about USAgain and TVind on the 'net if you want to check them out.
I guess the point I want to make is that we should be aware. There are many legit not-for-profits that accept donations of clothing...local clothing pantries, the Salvation Army, GoodWill Industries, church charities, etc. When I donate used clothing, it will be to one of these groups.
I know that the large not-for-profits also sometimes sell donated clothes overseas. The difference, of course, is that they use the money to provide real relief, and not to enrich a corrupt leadership.