Teva Ingrassia is a member of Freecycle, an online network of some 3.4 million people in hometowns across America. They give and get stuff for free.
"I've been involved with Freecycle for about two years and we've gotten everything from the smallest toy for our son to furniture for our living room, exercise equipment, a really broad range of items," said Ingrassia.
The goal of the Freecycle Network is to create a worldwide "gifting" movement in order to keep usable items out of landfills. Membership is free. Just go to Freecycle.org to look for your local group, register, and soon you'll be receiving e-mails telling you what's "offered," what's "wanted," and what has been "taken." You'll find everything from clothes to electronics, exercise equipment, and furniture.
Consumer Reports' Kim Kleman says the network appears to be catching on, with members in more than 4,000 U.S. communities and abroad.
"Freecycle can be a great way to get what you need and to save money. Be aware that the flood of e-mails can be overwhelming," said Kim Kleman.
Subscribing to the site's daily digest, a bundle of 25 messages, can ease e-mail overload. But you might miss something you're looking for too.
"The list is monitored by volunteers. There aren't a lot of rules, but the rules that exist are taken seriously. For example, you have to give, as well as receive," said Kleman.
Consumer Reports Money Adviser says one tip for successful freecyling: Make your first posting something to give away.
Consumer Reports states there are some important safeguards you should use. Limit how much personal information you give out. And it's a good idea when delivering an item to arrange to meet in a public place, instead of your home.
