I have had good luck with FC, giving away mostly books. I am like the DDIL, I do it for other people (neighbors)who don't have internet access. Most people are very nice and happy to get the items. I gave a bunch of Xmas stuff to a couple with 3 little girls and they were tickled pink!!
On the other hand, I had some diabetic supplies (very pricey) and couldn't find any takers. Gave them to someone on the board here.
Some groups have rules that your first post must be an offer rather than a request, or that you must balance out offers and requests. The moderators do a pretty good job of policing it.
Where I am located I end up posting on 3 FC sites, sort of in between geography-wise.