What not to donate

MANILA, Philippines - We get it. You see the photos, your heart is torn, you want to help. But this is not the time to clear your closet of last season’s party dresses or donate clothes that you wouldn’t wear outside your garage. Victims of Typhoon Yolanda do not need purses or used underwear. 

Even if the Philippine Red Cross manages to sell out their stock at the Aid Couture event, there are still tons of clothes in their warehouses, not to mention the fact that every year, PRC gets an additional two tons of clothing in donations. Below is a list of things to keep to yourself because contrary to what Cher Horowitz  thinks, they don’t need your skis. And remember:  When in doubt, give money.

High heels and sandals

This is a situation that trumps the “beggars can’t be choosers” card. Really, do you think the woman whose family is missing wants to walk around Tacloban looking for them in four-inch heels?

Handbags

A reusable canvas bag might be practical, but that faux leather satchel from Topshop or sequined clutch bag? Not such a good idea. While these items might sell well at Aid Couture, keep in mind that the Philippine Red Cross needs to focus their efforts on helping calamity victims, not selling your unwanted stuff.

Costumes

These people have been through so much already. The last thing they need is to lose their dignity along with everything else by walking around dressed like Harry Potter or worse, Miley Cyrus. In Wrecking Ball.

Cocktail dresses and gowns

Jean Napoles called. She wants her Herve Leger bandage dresses back. Don’t you think your teenage niece would be more appreciative of these kinds of garments?

Underwear

Even if you say it’s clean, do you think that volunteer workers will want to touch your used underwear? Brand new underwear in its original packaging is fine, but anything else will end up being thrown away because you couldn’t be generous without being gross.