Bethany House relies on the generosity of hundreds of individuals, companies, churches, and organizations each year to make sure families living in shelter have the supplies they need.
You can support families on their paths to self-sufficiency by sponsoring a meal in shelter, donating critical items such as household supplies or hygiene items, or organizing a donation drive.
Ways to Help
A Guide to Donating Items
Bethany House accepts many but not all donations! Learn more about what we need and accept:
Does Bethany House take used items?
Bethany House accepts only NEW items. No used items will be accepted under any circumstances.
What items do you accept?
Bethany House accepts the following items:
- Bethany Basics: bedding, bathroom supplies, kitchen equipment, cleaning supplies, and more. See the full list here.
- Hygiene Items: Basic hygiene items, particularly products for Black skin and hair. See the full list here.
- Snacks Donations must be individually wrapped, nonperishable, non-expired, and undamaged. See the full list here.
- Clothing: Socks, underwear, bras, winter gloves and hats, coats & jackets, pajamas, short- and long-sleeved t-shirts, shorts, leggings/athletic pants/sweatpants, athletic jackets/sweatshirts, and casual shoes/slippers/sandals.
- Baby Items: Diapers, formula, car seats, strollers, and more.
- Kids’ Items: Toys, games, educational/arts and crafts supplies
Notably, we do not accept furniture or any used items, including clothing.
Where do I bring my donation?
You can bring donations to Bethany House’s emergency shelter and comprehensive services center at 4769 Reading Rd., Cincinnati, OH, 45237, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Friday. Bring your donations to the Welcome Center just inside the front door.
When can I drop off my donation?
From 8 a.m. – 10 p.m., Monday through Friday
Can you recommend community partners who accept used items?
Yes, our families often benefit from the following places who will likely accept your donation:
The Salvation Army – 1-800-SA-TRUCK
Angel’s Arms Store -1882 Baltimore Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45225 513-921-5889. Does not accept furniture.
New Life Furniture Bank – (513) 313-0530
St. Vincent de Paul – (513) 421-CARE
If you have questions about donated items, please email donations@bhsinc.org.
Our Mission in Action
Trust the Process
Rolandus and Sheila built a good life together. They had stable jobs, a home, and two cars. But everything changed on January 5, 2023.That day, Rolandus’s car was struck by…Bethany’s Story
When Bethany lost her housing, she knew increasing her income would be the key to her long-term success. Through hard work and determination, she was able to do that. Next…Exemplifying Our Mission
Chanel is a single mother with two children, ages three and one. She was in shelter for just over a month when she began working with a housing case manager…
