I frequently put out good used items with a “free” sign on them. If it’s junk, it goes into a pile to be taken to the dump. I see nothing wrong with putting things on the curb; it doesn’t stay there more than a few hours, at most, and I’m sure it’s appreciated by those who take it, even if they’re taking it to put in their garage sale, as I’m sure some do, though, of course, I prefer that it go to someone needy, of which there are many in our town. Our local charities are only interested in clothing, and we live 50 miles from a big city, and the charities there won’t drive that far, except for a recovering Vet store, about every 2 years. We do take smaller items and clothing to a small city Goodwill, about 20 miles away, when we need to, but their pick-up trucks don’t come from there, they come from the big city.
And we also buy a lot at thrift stores, especially clothing and kitchenware. I like somewhat expensive, well-made, classically styled clothing, but I usually can’t afford it new. So, I shop thrift stores, and don’t hide the fact. I don’t see a lack of dignity or respect in ANY of the above.
we have a guy in a pick up that goes around picking up stuff people put out. saw another picking up metal objects like washers etc.