Can I avoid Charity by playing a one-shot Item face-down?

[MunchkinMan]

Originally Posted by Bampop

Yes. The rules say you can not conceal cards on the table.

The rules do not say this directly, but they do say that the cards that are in play show your Race, Class and what Items you are carrying, as well as any persistent Curses you are suffering from, implying very strongly that they must be face-up.