If your jigsaw puzzle collection is taking up too much space in your home, consider reorganizing your collection and donating any jigsaw puzzles you no longer want to keep. Donating jigsaw puzzles is a great option to give your jigsaw puzzles a second chance at life and reduce waste in landfills. Learn how to donate gently used jigsaw puzzles and discover what organizations will accept puzzle donations.
Make Sure the Puzzle Meets the Requirements
Before you donate any jigsaw puzzles, do a quick check to make sure your puzzle is in good condition:
- All pieces should be included (no missing pieces).
- Pieces should be clean and free of damage before donating.
- Keep the puzzle in its original box. Place the pieces in a resealable bag to keep them secure.
- If you don't have the original box, tape the box shut if needed, and label the piece count.
Puzzles with missing pieces or damage are usually not accepted, so take a few minutes to check and confirm that your donation is of good quality.
Where to Donate Jigsaw Puzzles
Many local organizations can accept jigsaw puzzles as donations. Below are suggestions for different types of local organizations that would love donated puzzles.
Libraries
Libraries usually accept puzzle donations for their community rooms or lending libraries. Check ahead of time to confirm they're accepting donations and if they have any specific requirements. Many libraries are also embracing community puzzle tables to encourage communication and collaboration in their communities.
Senior Communities and Assisted Living Homes
Jigsaw puzzles are a popular option in senior communities and assisted living homes. Jigsaw puzzles can help older adults improve their cognitive health and fine motor skills, while also offering a calming activity. Contact the activity director at a nearby facility to coordinate a drop-off or inquire about their specific requirements.
Schools and After-School Programs
Many schools accept jigsaw puzzle donations. Schools often use jigsaw puzzles in classrooms, libraries, or as part of after-school activities. Jigsaw puzzles are a great option during indoor recess or for quiet-time options.
Community Centers and Recreation Facilities
Puzzles are a popular addition to game rooms and public lounges at rec centers. Get in touch with one of these centers to see if they are requesting any jigsaw puzzle donations.
Thrift Stores and Nonprofit Shops
Stores like Goodwill, Habitat for Humanity ReStores, and local thrift shops can accept jigsaw puzzles, if they are in good condition. You can sometimes write off these donations as tax deductible if the store qualifies as a nonprofit. Donating jigsaw puzzles to these stores helps provide inventory to sell and the profits can be used for specific programs that give back to the community.
Shelters and Family Housing Programs
Women's shelters, family support services, and homeless shelters often welcome puzzles as a comforting, low-cost form of entertainment for children and adults.
Puzzling for a Good Cause
Donating jigsaw puzzles can help support your community, reduce waste in landfills, and give your puzzles a second chance to be enjoyed by another puzzler. Whenever you have a puzzle that no longer sparks joy, donating it to someone is a great way to share your love of puzzling with others.
