AUSTIN, Texas — A program called MoveOutATX is hoping to help people in the community. It’s a partnership between the city of Austin, the University of Texas’s Office of Sustainability and the UT Dean of Students.
As many UT students move out for the summer, they are now able to donate furniture and other items for a good cause.
"When all the residents have to end their leases on July 31, we are trying to a give a convenient option to donate the things they don't want," said Megan Kaplon with Austin Resource Recovery.
Students can drop off furniture at seven locations from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. until Wednesday, July 31. Furniture is then transferred to the UT Whitaker Tennis Court parking lot on 51st Street.
"The one time of the year it turns into this really cool free furniture marketplace where members of the community can come take up to two items each for their home. All they have to do it sign a liability waiver, make sure these pieces of furniture go the members of the community in need," said Kaplon.
UT seniors Maria Mendoza and Robert Veliz dropped off a couch on Monday.
"Thought it would be great to drop off some stuff around here since during moveout season people throw out their stuff on the side of the road. We thought this was a perfect opportunity,” Mendoza said.
"It feels pretty good. Better to donate than just throw it on the side of the road, and somebody else having a chance at it," said Veliz.
Last year during MoveOutATX, 22 tons of material were collected, and since 2018, 223 tons have been collected. Small appliances will go to Goodwill, Salvation Army and Arms of Hope.