If you're starting the new year inspired to declutter, or you're simply tired of closets overflowing with clothes you no longer wear, remember to open your underwear drawer, too. Few women (me included) think to donate our used bras. But this intimate item is, in fact, greatly desired and in short supply.

"It's not something you think to donate," said Kristin McClement, a spokeswoman for the intimate apparel brand Soma. But a woman may need to escape danger in the middle of the night, wearing just her pajamas, she explained. "We want to make sure every woman, regardless of her situation, feels supported from the inside out."

Since 2010, Soma has partnered with the National Network to End Domestic Violence to collect donated bras for women living temporarily in domestic abuse shelters. Minnesota Soma stores are eager to take your gently used bras — or, even better, a lovely new one. They'll be collecting through Feb. 3.

Any size or style is welcome. Just one request. "Please wash it first," McClement said. "Then it's just like a sweater in a way."

Soma works with local domestic violence organizations to make sure that bras stay in the communities where they are donated. Bras deemed too worn for re-use are sent to an Arizona-based company called the Bra Recyclers. (Yes, really!)

Soma stores are located at Rosedale in Roseville, Southdale in Edina, Ridgedale in Minnetonka, the Mall of America in Bloomington, the Shoppes at Arbor Lakes in Maple Grove and Woodbury Lakes and in Rochester.

To learn more, go to soma.com/ givebras. □