Mitchell School: Kids want donations to reach those in need

Isaiah Alviar: Find the right charity

Re “Atwater bins for old duds said deceitful” (Page A1, March 6): After reading the article, I was really concerned about this issue developing in our city. When people generously donate their personal items to these bins, they are led to believe all the items are being donated to charity. As a town, we must know that not all of these items are going directly to charity. Take the time to find a charity you trust to donate your items. Let those items go to those in need.

Thalia Gonzalez: Companies deceiving our citizens

Re “Atwater bins for old duds said deceitful” (Page A1, March 6): I am furious and honestly shocked. These “donation” bins all over Atwater are collecting generous donations from citizens believing the items are going to nonprofit organizations. In fact, these items are being emptied from the bins by “for-profit” businesses. It’s sad to think well-meaning donations are serving as profit for these companies. As stated in the article, items being donated to these bins are being sold to thrift stores and even shredded for pillow and sofa fillings. The next time you sit on your couch, think to yourself, “Was this once the donation of a deceived Atwater citizen?”

Alyssa McCabe: Deception for profit is sickening

Re “Atwater bins for old duds said deceitful” (Page A1, March 6): I think this has shed light on our town being tricked by these “for-profit” companies collecting items deposited in charity bins. No longer should residents be led to believe they are donating their items to those in need, only to find the majority of those items are being sold off for profit. This truly sickens me and I believe as a town we should stop donating to these bins and find other charitable organizations that will honestly help our community.

This story was originally published March 26, 2015 at 11:00 AM with the headline "Mitchell School: Kids want donations to reach those in need."