Participants begin by joining (or creating) a Freecycle list focused on the area where they live.  If they have something to give away, they post a message with the subject heading "Offered:  Toaster Oven."  If they are seeking an item, they post a message with the subject heading "Wanted: Toaster Oven."  When members of the list find a match for themselves, it's up to them to take it off-list and arrange for a pick-up; various guidelines are in place to ensure that this is done in a manner suitable to civil society.