Volunteer at a Stop 'N' Swap through the GrowNYC volunteer page

Host a Stop 'N' Swap in your community! If you know of a large, indoor, handicapped accesible space let us know! Email recycle@grownyc.org or call 212-788-7900. 
 

Stop 'N Swap from GrowNYC on Vimeo.
Stop 'N' Swap on NY1

Check out photos from our Winter 2011 Stop 'N' Swap series

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is a Stop ‘N’ Swap?
It’s a free event where people can find new homes for unwanted items (like clothes, books, shoes, toys, housewares) or take items they can use.  You don’t need to bring something to take something! 

How does it work?
Simply drop any items at our "drop-off" table.  We'll weigh them, sort them, and put them out on our display tables. Items on the display tables are free on a first come, first served basis.  

Why does GrowNYC host Stop ‘N’ Swap?
Stop ‘N’ Swap is one way we pursue our mission to reduce waste and promote reuse in NYC.  By participating in community swaps, New Yorkers simultaneously reduce their contribution to landfills and prevent the waste that comes from the production, packaging and transportation required to get new things. It's also an opportunity to engage with NYC communities about recycling resources in their neighborhood and the services of GrowNYC's zero waste programs funded by the NYC Department of Sanitation.  Our goal is hold a swap in every community district in NYC every year, so that we can give everyone in the city an opportunity to reduce and reuse right where they live!

What should I bring to the Stop 'N' Swap?
Bring yourself! Bring family and friends. Definitely bring a tote bag or two for items you want to take home.

You are encouraged to bring clean, working and portable items you no longer need, but this is not required.

What shouldn't I bring to the Stop 'N' Swap?
Please do not bring furniture or other large items that cannot be carried away easily.

See our Code of Conduct for a full list of items we do not Swap.  

How much does it cost to attend?
Swaps are free of charge and all items are available for the taking on a first come, first served basis.

Will I have to wait for people to take my items?
No. Your items will be sorted and placed out after you drop them off for others to take. You are free to pick up items that you can use. There is no exchange based on how much or how little you bring, or the relative expense of the items.  *Please bring giveaways no later than an hour before the end of the event to ensure time for them to find new homes.*

Will someone watch my stuff?
No. We are not responsible for personal property.  Please do not leave your coat, bag or other items unattended. When leaving donations at the intake table, please be sure to hand us only that which you are giving away.     

Can I drop items off before the event?
No. Items are only accepted during the event. We encourage you to drop off near the start to better ensure your items find a new home.

What happens to items leftover after the event?
Anything left at the end of the day will be sorted and recycled or donated for reuse as much as possible.

Can someone pick up my donations from my apartment?
Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate this request.

How can I find new homes for large items or things I forgot to bring to the Stop 'N' Swap?
Try resources like Freecycle.org or Craigslist for miscellaneous items. You can also search a list of local charities at DonateNYC.

"Stop 'N' Swap" is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office