Watch the "free" category in the classifieds, also the same with "FreeCycle" if it's in your area, via e-mail. You never know what some folks are offering for free. All you have to do is be one of the first to show up and haul it off. We've got in on free firewood (on 2 different occasions, 1 we took and another time for some friends). Another time, we got some free flower bulbs: Cannas, purple Irises, etc. Who knows what you might get in on!
I moved back to the San Francisco bay area a couple of years ago and shortly after I discovered a site called craiglist.com!!!! I have been hooked ever sense. the homesite allows you to pick your state and closest city. then the directory will come up. go to the "free" catagory. If I would have known about it before moving and the expense of renting a truck/fuel and a very sore back just to bring all my used and 2nd hand purchases to furnish my apt. I could have packed up my clothes and given away everything else. I have gotten some of the neatest and useful stuff for free....You have to respond quickly for the best chances but if you haven't been a fan of craigslist you may find yourself totally addicted. check it outl
Please keep in mind that each Freecycle chapter has different rules and requirements. It is not all about being the first one to respond to an offer...that is up to the poster to decide who receives their item....it does NOT have to go to the first person. Freecycle likes it if the poster waits 24 hours before choosing someone to give their item to, instead of the first one that responds. The 24 hour waiting period is nice for those who don't/can't sit at their computer all day waiting for free stuff to appear....it gives everyone a chance.
Please take time to make offers too on your local Freecycle...there is always something that is still plenty useful that you no longer need that maybe someone else can use. Not only take, give as well! Look around your home, I am sure you'll find something to offer!
Another helpful hint when responding to an offer, use courtesy and respect. I have had several respond to my posts almost demanding I give it to them, or being greedy...those folks don't get my item.
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