2,721 lbs
Waste diverted
50+
Events
Mission
The mission of Strange Exchange is to extend the useful life of small household items through hyper-local, community reshuffle hubs.
By fostering a culture of sharing and sustainability, we aim to connect neighbors and empower them to exchange items they no longer need, reducing waste and promoting resourcefulness. Our hubs serve as vibrant community spaces where individuals can come together to discover new treasures, share stories, and build lasting relationships. Through education and engagement, we strive to cultivate a sense of stewardship for our environment and encourage a more mindful approach to consumption, ultimately contributing to a healthier planet and a more connected community.
Come join us Sundays for our weekly exchange extravaganza!
PCFMA Farmers’ Market, DMV Parking Lot,
1377 Fell St, San Francisco, CA 94117 – 9AM to 1PM
Items we collect
For the latest list & updates, please check our instagram.
Below is our typical list of acceptable goods.
Art Supplies
oil/acrylic paint, brushes, tape, glue, scissors, buttons, yarn, stickers
Magazines
current year (2024) & National Geographic (any year)
Jewelry
including broken jewelry, watches, single earrings
Cards & Calendars
unused greetings cards & postcards, 2025 calendars & loyalty punch cards
Accessories
shoelaces, wallets & men’s belts (in good condition), broken belts (any style)
Corks
natural & synthetic
Food Adjacent
green berry baskets, pulp berry cartons, egg cartons, cereal boxes, plastic wrapped utensils, chopsticks, condiment & sugar packets & wrapped teabags
Gardening
tools, gloves, seeds, plant cuttings
Glasses
sunglasses, prescription glasses, cases, & repair kits
Metal
keys, keychains, locks, bottle caps, hardware (nails, screws, picture hooks)
Pet Supplies
good condition collars, leashes & small toys
Tennis Balls
all types
Items We *DON’t* Collect
PLEASE check below to ensure that you are donating acceptable goods.
Clothing
Books
Electronics
Kitchen Items
Partners
At Strange Exchange, we believe in the power of collaboration to create lasting change in our community. We are proud to partner with a diverse group of organizations that share our commitment to sustainability, support for local residents, and the betterment of our environment. Our partners include:
- SCRAP: A nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting creative reuse and environmental sustainability, SCRAP empowers individuals to repurpose materials and reduce waste.
- Larkin Street Youth Services: This vital organization provides essential support and resources for homeless and at-risk youth, helping them achieve self-sufficiency and a brighter future.
- Lions Club & Lions in Sight: With a focus on community service, the Lions Club and Lions in Sight work to improve the quality of life for those in need, particularly through vision care and support for the visually impaired.
- Mercy Housing: Committed to providing affordable housing and supportive services, Mercy Housing works to create stable homes for low-income families and individuals.
- HumanGood.org: This organization is dedicated to enhancing the lives of older adults through innovative services and supportive communities, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.
- Muttville: A nonprofit that rescues senior dogs and provides them with loving homes, Muttville promotes the joy of pet companionship while advocating for the welfare of all animals.
- Haight Ashbury Food Program: Focused on combating food insecurity, this program offers nutritious meals and resources to those in need, helping to nourish our community and promote well-being.
Together, we are building a stronger, more resilient community through shared resources, knowledge, and a commitment to sustainability. Join us in supporting these amazing organizations and their efforts to create positive change!
About US
Strange Exchange is the (re)love child of friends and former coworkers Lela Means and Christina Gilyutin. Strange Exchange is the culmination of many conversations about waste and what to do about it. Strange Exchange plans to stay small, local and focused and hopes to inspire others to start a Strange Exchange in their neighborhood!
Lela Means
Christina Gilyutin
Press
Explore our media coverage and see how we’re making an impact.
Stay up to date with the latest news and stories featuring our work in the press.