Raleigh, N.C. — The last week of 2008 will be busy for local charities. They are bracing for a spike in donations, especially on New Year's Eve.

“We had a fantastic Christmas ... everybody as usual, got more than they needed,” Goodwill supporter Jennifer Derby said.

Derby makes it an annual tradition to clean house after Christmas and take items to the Goodwill store in Brier Creek.

“It's very busy for us,” said Steve Snyderman of Goodwill of Eastern North Carolina.

Goodwill officials say donations are coming in so fast that it will be another two months before all December donations appear on the sales floor. The holidays do spur generosity, but the approaching tax season is another season for the boost.

“There are other people who are thinking about tax returns and they want to get a receipt before the end of the year,” Snyderman said.

That way, cast-offs can double as tax write-offs. The Brier Creek Goodwill store sees about a 100 drop-offs a day during the holiday season. They estimate 900 cars could show up on Dec. 31.

“Just don't wait until Wednesday if you can help it,” Snyderman said.

While donations can help people get a tax break, Goodwill officials say only a third of people ask for a receipt.

Goodwill does not accept computers, bedding or large appliances as donations.