Parting with LEGO is hard — but bricks are built to last generations, so the best thing you can do is get them to a kid who'll actually build with them. Here's every place that takes used LEGO donations, and the honest tradeoffs of each.
Schools Accept LEGO Donations
Teachers use LEGO for STEM lessons, indoor recess, and art projects, and most classroom budgets don't stretch to new sets. Email a local school before dropping off so they're expecting it.
Libraries Love LEGO Donations
Many libraries run after-school programs and kids' play areas that can use extra bricks. Ask the head librarian first.
Daycares and Preschools Use LEGO Donations
Daycares are the best home for outgrown Duplo, which is sized for younger children. Call around to see who wants them.
Hospitals & Doctor's Offices
A bin of LEGO turns a nervous waiting room into playtime. Call ahead — some facilities require new, unopened sets for hygiene reasons.
Toy Charities & LEGO Replay
The Salvation Army and Toys for Tots take toys (unopened sets around the holidays). LEGO's own Replay program mails your bricks to children's nonprofits — donation-only, so you won't be paid.
When Selling Makes More Sense Than Donating
Donating is generous, but it's the one option that puts nothing back in your pocket. If you have a large collection, rare or retired sets, or you'd simply rather get paid, selling by the pound is faster than sorting through who-takes-what — free shipping, no sorting, cash in days.