It violates people's internal sense of morality in a strangely strong way to do that for whatever reason. It's a white lie but ultimately it's an act of kindness to take the electronic intercom from RadioShack that your father is pretty sure "just needs a new rheostat"

It is kind of morally gray. The intent isn't to deceive. It's to help them against themselves. I've taken many kids clothes and toys from family members who no longer need them. They just don't want to throw something away that could be of use. If my young kids use them, great! If not and they're in good condition, I'll donate them to Goodwill or something. Otherwise it's going in the trash.