THERE is truth to the saying one man's garbage is another man's treasure ¿ never more true when one receives a truly awful holiday gift from a well-intentioned relative.

So go ahead and re-gift, clean out your garage or indulge your inner treasure hunter all for a good cause.

The Bermuda Red Cross is holding its first annual Rummage Sale on January 31 from 9 a.m .to 2 p.m. at its headquarters on Berry Hill Road, Paget. All of the proceeds from the sale will go directly to help reduce the organisation's operating costs.

"We are totally changing our fundraising strategy this year," Ann Spencer-Arscott, director of the Bermuda Red Cross, said. "For the past 15 years we had a big dinner dance in July but because of the economic downtown that is affecting the community, we decided to do something that was a win/win situation for us and for those that want to donate."

The regional arm of the global humanitarian group is appealing for donations, including new and used toys, sporting goods, plants, pots, garden items, new and used books, CDs, videos and DVDs, kitchen appliances and small pieces of furniture. Clothing, stuffed animals and large furniture will not be accepted due to the lack of facility space to house those items.

There will also be a food stall where people can purchase donated baked goods.

People can drop off their donated items at the Bermuda Red Cross headquarters on Thursday, January 29 (4 p.m. to 7 p.m.) and Friday, January 30 (8.30 a.m. to 1 p.m.).

Volunteers are also needed to help set up and man the various stalls. Should you be interested in joining the project, contact the group at 236-8253.