Interview with Carla Reed, Who Held a Free Garage Sale in Houston, TX

I recently got to do an interview of an interesting and humble woman named Carla Reed. She held a garage sale in which everything was free. She called it a freecycle garage sale and posted an ad on craigslist.org. The concept of the garage sale was to hold a "sale" where the patrons would not need to worry about the cost of items or whether they could afford them. It was only a matter of what they wanted because everything was free to anyone who felt they wanted it. The garage sale was held on June 23rd in Houston, TX. Below are the questions I asked Carla, along with her answers.

Me: How did your idea for a "free" yard sale come about?
Carla: Well, I was going to donate my things to Goodwill, but I didn't want people having to pay for my things. I while back I posted a free couch on craigslist and it felt great to be able to give something away to someone who needed it more than me.

Me: Had you ever thought about selling the items for profit, or did you always know you would give them away?
Carla: I had always intended to give away these items.

Me: What gave you the idea to give everything away versus selling it for a profit?
Carla: It wasn't a great epiphany or anything I just wanted to give back somehow. I came from a very poor home and I know how it feels to be in need. I am by no means wealthy but I am not going hungry so therefore I don't think I should be making profit on something that can easily be given to those who have less. It may sound a little sanctimonious but it is just as simple as that.

Me: What is your hope for this event?
Carla: All I am hoping for is that families that are truly in need can benefit from a freecycle garage sale. I just want to help out as much as I can.

Me: What will you gain for doing this?
Carla: Gain? I'm not sure.

Me: Why host an event like this versus just dropping off the items at a shelter or donation box?
Carla: Good question. This way it goes directly to the person versus an organization that determines who is eligible for need. I think both avenues have their own benefits.