I've always used DBAN. Simple and there is a free version.

https://dban.org/

The only problem with DBAN is that it wipes everything out including a restore partition if there is one. I mean it's not an issue if you're going to install a clean version of Win10, but some people like the actual install of Win10 that comes from the factory. (I find for the elderly, they like their card games solitaire even though you can find better versions on the net).

The other consideration (and this might be outdated information as it has been a while since I've used it and never on an SSD) is it's effect on the lifespan of an SSD, especially if you go for the full on 25 pass wipes (but that's true of any data wiper). Also considering it hasn't been updated in years... there are better ways of doing it.

I'm often in one of three major metropolitan areas and have attempted to donate similar machines to a good cause. Unfortunately, most orgs don't want the machines b/c of the hassle of working with them and them being "different" from other machines which they get/use in bulk. Sadly, I'm left to remove and physically destroy the drives and recycle all of it. For me, the only way to be sure is destruction of the drives.

Have you checked more recently? There was a large need for used hardware around last fall and some schools are still operating remotely. They might need more laptops, tablets, or chrome books for incoming students if they're operating in hybrid models. Donations in my area could be made to libraries which partnered with companies or volunteers to re-image everything. The libraries also worked with the city to provide hotspots and extend wifi into more areas of the parking lot/exterior for those without stable home internet.

Agreed. I take any reasonably usable system from any contacts/clients, wipe the drives and install a fresh OS (varies) and donate them to schools and community centres. This includes desktop PC's. No expectation of support. Would love to be able to provide a stream of steady computers to help the community, but they'll take what they can get. When I build a surplus of non functional parts (if I rebuild systems) those go to recycling, although i wouldn't mind finding a direct partner to break down and reclaim the materials if I had enough.

Goodwill is NOT a good option for this. I have, multiple times, found computers at Goodwill with all their data intact.

If you are near a freegeek location, that's a good choice. They take data security / privacy very seriously.

I can't speak to Freegeek, but I must say, the only person you can hold responsible for your data is you. If you don't wipe it yourself and leave it to others, invariably someone will miss something. Others can help you, but it's your responsibility to secure your data.

If these are older than (say) 5 years most of the data is "stale"--probably a simple pass or two of a drive erase utility should be sufficient.
Another option is to pull the drives and use them externally (adding a drive enclosure) for back-up purposes.
About 5 years ago my pc was "scammed": "we're from Microsoft and we detected 'bad files' on your computer" the scammers got onto to my computer and "showed me bad stuff", I detected a scam and wanted them off my system, they "sysgened" my system, since the computer was getting flaky I pulled the drive backed it up to a new computer...in 5 years I've never needed to access any of the backed up dats.:p

I can speak to freegeek - Dedicated data cage, employees only, every device is wiped thoroughly. If a storage device can’t be wiped due to hardware issues, it is destroyed.