Bureau of Refugee Services
Donations

Donations of household items are an important way you can become involved.  When coming to the U.S., refugees are allowed only two suitcases of belongings.  Household goods are the number one item needed as a refugee starts a new life here.  Donations of a number of household items (excluding large appliances and clothing) are needed.  Below is a list of items that Bureau of Refugee Services can accept.  If you wish to donate item that you do not see listed below, please call Amber Essary at 515- 283-9129 or 515-283-7999 or email her at aessary@dhs.state.ia.us 

Furniture

• Kitchen Table
• Kitchen Chairs
• Sofa/Couch/Loveseat
• Comfort/Arm Chairs
• Coffee/End tables
• Dressers/Chest of Drawers
• Mattresses or bedroom sets

Kitchen Items

• Dishes
• Glasses
• Silverware
• Cooking Bowls
• Pots, pans, skillets
• Cooking utensils
• Dish towels/cloths
• Broom/Dust pan
• Dish drainer and mat
• Baking sheets/baking pans

Bathroom Items

• Laundry Detergent
• Laundry Basket
• Bath Towels
• Wash Cloths
• Bath Mats
• Shower Curtain
• Toilet paper
• Kleenex
• Toothpaste
• Toothbrushes
• Shampoo and Bar Soap

Bedroom Items

• Sheets (Single/double/queen)
• Pillows
• Pillowcases
• Blankets/bedspreads

Small Appliances/Electrical Items

• Radios
• Irons and Ironing Boards
• Alarm Clocks
• Vacuum Cleaners