Do not gives away boots that leak – shoes that you know will pinch anyone; clothes that are itchy – for anyone. Someone at a thrift store will pay for those useless pieces and then have boots that leak.
These places do NOT fix small appliances – don’t donate broken things. Maybe 500 years ago organizations did teach repair – but do not assume. They are rubbish to you and they are rubbish to all. If you give it away and then someone on a strict budget, or in need of bargains, because of illness or other issues and then the person has nothing – no money and no safe warm dry shoes.
Think before you give things away!
In Toronto, after I bought leaky boots a couple of times, a wonderful girl I knew offered a trade. I had a beautiful pair (certainly not for snow) of dress boots from Argentina – and she and I wore the same size. This was 1995 and to this day I still have a snug boot. I did put new soles on them about 12 years ago. I tried to look up this company – I will have to search the computer for that company name! I used these boots this morning in the snow. The stitching in the back of the heels is beginning to give. These boots were used when I got them and they have served me well 24 years.
Cold coats, clothes with stains, broken appliances and leaky winter boots
Drawing by the wonderful late Cliff Kennedy – Published by Alias – the Computer Club – Fred Victor Center, Toronto. Alias 51.
I am still wearing the replacement boots. They still walk and are dry and warm. I did find another repairman who put on new soles with new glue and I am still wearing those boots. The shoe repairman is located across from the Marine Barracks in Washington DC. The color is still on the leather and the backs could be stitched – one more time.
Marionetta Strung-Out 