CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — The University of Illinois is encouraging students and community members to lighten their load at the end of the semester while helping local charities during its annual Dump & Run® event. From Monday, May 11, through Saturday, May 16, eight mobile storage units will be placed near campus residence halls, open daily from noon to 8 p.m., to collect gently used personal items.

Donations can include clothing, shoes, accessories, small appliances, electronics, books, furniture, and nonperishable food. Items must be in usable condition, as broken or hazardous materials, mattresses, and university-owned property are not accepted.

Event organizers said the goal is to prevent useful belongings from reaching landfills prematurely while supporting local charities that will pick up donations throughout the week. Locations and more information about acceptable items are available on the university’s Facilities & Services website.

“The Dump & Run program makes it easy for students to give back to the community and reduce waste,” said a university spokesperson. “It’s a win-win: lighten your load, help the planet, and support local organizations in need.”