Reuse

Reuse is using something again. Through reuse, we get more value out of an item by extending its life and eliminate the need for a new item. Conventional reuse is where an item is used again for the same function, and creative reuse is where an item is used for a different function.  Reusing is the more environmentally preferred option because it uses even less energy and resources than recycling does!

The most environmentally friendly way to get rid of it is to find a reuse option. Sell it, give it away or donate it.

Clothes Shoes Donate Bin with Hand

2023 Reuse Events

Bring your old unwanted items from your yard or garage sale to our free reuse event. Donate items in working condition for others to pick up and reuse at their home.  Any items left over after the reuse event will be donated to Salvation Army. 

Donating items to Anoka County’s Reuse Events supports:

  • The County’s waste reduction goals
  • Your neighbors by providing items for free!
Location Address   Date Time
Ham Lake City Hall 15544 Central Ave NE, Ham Lake Donation intake time Saturday, May 6, 2023 8 a.m. - Noon & 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. 
    FREE Reuse Event Sunday, May 7, 2023 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Anoka County Fairgrounds 3200 St. Francis Blvd NW, Anoka Donation intake time Saturday, May 20, 2023 3 p.m. - 7 p.m.
    FREE Reuse Event Sunday, May 21, 2023 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park 6970 LaMotte Dr, Centerville Donation intake time Friday, June 16, 2023 3 p.m. - 7 p.m.
    FREE Reuse Event Saturday, June 17, 2023 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Donation Guidelines for Reuse Events

  • Everything must be in good, working condition. No rips, tears, pet hair, stains, wear marks, strong odors, or large, bulky items. Furniture approval is based on an onsite inspection.
  • You must unload items yourself, bring them to the check-in table for inspection and weighing, and stay on site until your donations have been processed.
  • To streamline the check-in process, pre-sort items into sturdy bags or boxes by these categories: electronics, books, music, sporting goods, toys, furniture, gardening supplies, household goods, small appliances, textiles, tools, and yard equipment.
  • Recalled items, electronics older than 5 years, hazardous products, baby gear, medical equipment, bulky or out-of-season toys, and building & construction materials are not accepted. Please check the lists of accepted and not accepted materials below.

For broken items, consider attending one of Anoka County’s Fix-it Clinics.

Reuse event accepted items

  1. Electronics
  2. Entertainment
  3. Yard and Garden
  4. Household Goods
  5. Miscellaneous

Accepted

  • 5 years old or newer and in good, working condition
  • Desktop, portable, and mixed electronics (clear all data and reset to factory settings if possible)

Not Accepted

  • Items older than 5 years
  • Box, console, and projection-style TVs
  • Loose cords

What to do with broken or unaccepted items

For broken items, consider attending one of Anoka County’s Fix-It Clinics.

Consider giving away items for free on NextDoor, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Minnesota Materials Exchange, or some other platform. Even broken, ripped, or worn items may have value to someone in your community, so give that a try before disposing of an item.

If fixing or giving away an item are not good options for an item, please call 763-324-3400 or consult the Recycling & Disposal Directory (hyperlink) to find the safest and most convenient disposal option.