DEAR SUN SPOTS: Could you please help me locate a place to donate used men’s suits? I know Dress for Success takes women’s career wear, but what about things for local men? I also have some jackets for both sexes. In addition, where can I donate a barely used shower chair? Christmas decorations? Used sheets and towels that I no longer want? Perhaps a listing of local nonprofit organizations that help people or animals would be beneficial to readers cleaning out their homes? Many thanks. — Molly, Greene

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I’m moving very soon and have a living room set (couch, chair and tables) to give away, along with lots of hardcover books. Thanks. — S. Spiller, 795-6496

ANSWER: Sun Spots addressed the issue of used books fully in a column on Tuesday, Nov. 10, which you can read at www.sunjournal.com under the Advice tab. As for some of the other items, here is what she found:

Goodwill, 1035 Lisbon St., 782-3050. They accept clothing, shoes, household goods, books, furniture in saleable condition but no mattresses, no appliances except items such as small microwaves and coffeemakers. Open Monday to Saturday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Salvation Army, 720 Main St., 784-2366. They take everything as long as it’s in saleable condition — no ripped, torn or dirty items. Open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

St. Martins Bargain Basket, corner of College and Bartlett streets, 786-4690. They accept dishes, pots and pans, linens, décor, furniture, holiday decorations, jewelry and toys. They don’t take clothing, computers or appliances. Open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

St. Vincent de Paul, 101 Ash St., 782-8309. They take clothing, linens, small household items, no furniture or appliances. Their hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday 1 to 4 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to noon.

There are undoubtedly one or two charities that Sun Spots missed, but she suspects that she will hear from them!

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Could you locate a pattern to knit scouring pads with “net” material? I purchased the material from Jo-Aann Fabrics & Crafts, but I cannot find a pattern. Thanks. — Doris, No Town

ANSWER: Hopefully a reader will be able to help. Sun Spots found one online, but it is patented.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I am writing to let you know that I am the new owner of Shear Madness Salon located at 1117 Center St. in Auburn. I have seen previous Sun Spots stating Shear Madness has closed. I just wanted to let you know we are open and accepting gift certificates for any service we provide, including hair, nails and massage. Thanks. — Christine Laliberte, owner

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I have been looking for someone or some company that installs the spray-on expanding foam-type insulation. I’ve read it is very efficient and am interested in getting some more information. Thanks. — Harold “Bunky” Hall, Hebron

ANSWER: Sun Spots spoke with Bret, the production manager at Nickerson-Remick, which specializes in this insulation. Bret said that this process is used in new construction or “open cavity,” where one side or the other of a wall is open. Examples of where it could be used in old construction would be crawl spaces, attics and basement walls. Bret said it is sprayed on much like you would paint a car, but then expands inward. Although not impervious to critters, it is a better barrier than fiberglass in areas where rodents are an issue.

Another type of insulation readers might be interested in is “injection foam,” where a hole is drilled, the insulation is injected. You then wait for it to dry, which can take a while. Nickerson-Remick has acquired the equipment for injection foam, but hasn’t begun offering it yet.

Nickerson-Remick (www.nickerson-remick.com) is based in Portsmouth, N.H., but serves Southern Maine. If local contractors offer similar services, just let the column know.

This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name (we won’t use it if you ask us not to). Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be e-mailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.

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