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Donate plastic bags and reusable shopping bags

Several local not-for-profit organizations are accepting donations of plastic bags and reusable shopping bags. The bags will be available for community members in need, who may use them for shopping needs or for garbage bin liners.

Some businesses may have extra stock of plastic shopping bags that may not be used before the ban takes effect on January 1, 2023. We encourage local businesses to donate extra plastic shopping bags so they can be used by the community at least once before they need to be disposed.

Please contact the not-for-profit organization before you drop off the bags to confirm donation instructions and to make sure the organization is accepting bags.

Before you donate reusable bags, please follow these steps:

  1. Remove all items from inside the bags, including receipts and personal belongings.
  2. Wash your bags (in a washing machine or by hand).
  3. Tumble dry bags on low heat or hang to dry. Ensure bags are completely dry before donating to prevent mold.
  4. Inspect bags for any damage. Do not donate bags with broken handles, ripped seams, or large holes.

Places to donate

You can donate plastic bags and/or reusable shopping bags at any of these organizations in Guelph.

Not-for-profit organizationAddressContact InformationType of bag
Guelph Food Bank100 Crimea Street519-767-1380Plastic bags
Reusable bags
Royal City Mission50 Quebec Street519-837-3777Plastic bags
Reusable bags
University of Guelph Bag Bank50 Stone Road East[email protected]Reusable bags
Hope House10 Cork Street East519-265-4299Reusable bags
Chalmers Community Services Centre41 Macdonell Street519-822-8778Plastic bags
Reusable bags
Michael House187 Bristol Street519-766-7675Plastic bags (small quantities only)
Reusable bags
New Life Church – Clothing Closet400 Victoria Road North519-823-5851Reusable bags
Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis38 Elizabeth Street519-836-1110Plastic bags
Reusable bags (new reusable bags only)
Guelph Central Student Association (CSA) Food Bank50 Stone Road East519-824-4120 extension 52561Plastic bags only (must email for an appointment)
Guelph Neighbourhood Support Coalition – North End Harvest Market140 Waverly Drive519-835-1016Reusable bags