As you are sprucing up your home for the holidays and thinking about getting rid of that old sofa or set of dishes, you may want to think about giving those items a second chance.

The Disability Resource Center on Woodsmill Road in Gainesville is collecting household items that can be used by the center’s clients who are trying to transition out of a nursing home or institution and into an independent living arrangement.

“We provide resources for individuals to utilize in finding their own solutions to achieve their goal of living independently. The transition program has existed since (the center) has been in business, however on a much smaller scale,” said Sandy Chandler, center independent living coordinator.

“Additional programs and resources are now available for assistance to make transitions more successful. Therefore, we are able to expand our program to assist additional people with this request.”

The nonprofit center was established in Gainesville in 1996 and helps individuals with disabilities “pursue meaningful goals and have the same opportunities and choices as all persons.”

In addition to the transition program, the center also has programs that help individuals with disabilities improve their job skills.

According to staff, the center’s clients range from individuals who were born with a disability to those who were disabled later in life.

Each year, the center helps about four people make the transition to living on their own. But to help more people, the center needs extra assistance from the community.

“Cash donations are always needed to assist with rental utility deposits,” Chandler said.

“Other items that are needed are furniture and household items such as pots, pans, dishes and utensils.”

Used items are welcome, but they should be in good, usable condition, Chandler said.