Household Items Exchange Program Helps Families

Are you starting that spring cleaning project, upgrading furniture, or getting ready to PCS? If so, chances are you have extra furniture or appliances that you no longer need. The Army Community Service has a program that's just what the mover ordered. The Household Items Exchange Program assists military families that need household items, in particular junior enlisted families, who are in the process of setting up their household in the Fort Detrick area.

The HIEP is a referral service only, connecting ACS clients with members in the Fort Detrick and Frederick communities who want to donate household items to a good cause. The HIEP does not provide storage, pick-up, or delivery services for the donated items. No money is ever exchanged for HIEP items.

If a service member is interested in receiving HIEP items, he contacts ACS to get on the HIEP list. The service member provides up-to-date contact information and a list of items needed for the home. After that, ACS personnel try to link the service member with a donor who has previously listed items with the HIEP.

Naturally some items are more popular than others. Washers and dryers are by far the most requested items. In fact, there is usually a waiting list after the busy summer PCS season for these appliances. Twin beds, bunk beds, dinette sets, and sofas are quite popular furniture pieces. Cribs and double strollers are often requested but are not usually available through the program.

Both donors and requesters can sign up for HIEP in person, by phone, email, or fax. All HIEP donors may provide a timeframe that an item is available.. Donors may list items for donation well in advance for a better chance to place the item in a needing home. The ACS does not provide personal information to anyone except qualified ACS clients.

Contact the ACS at 301-619-3455/3456 for more info on the program