Our local Goodwill stores are experiencing a shortage in donations right now. Donations fund Goodwill’s job training programs and services, and there is concern that the shortage could affect its ability to provide its mission of changing lives through education, training and employment.
Leisa Wamsley, Vice President of Donated Goods, stated, “Donations are the lifeblood of Goodwill as they start the cycle that allows us to provide job training programs and services that changes lives.” Wamsley added, “Last year, we turned nearly 554,000 donor transactions into 27,870 people served, of which 4,547 individuals attained jobs statewide. We plan on serving more individuals this year, but a shortage of donations could affect our ability to do it.”
According to Goodwill’s statistics, three pairs of jeans equals 30 minutes of career services to individuals. Goodwill is urging members of the community to drop off their gently used clothes, housewares, furniture, computers and even vehicles. Donations may be dropped off at any of its 40+ donation centers across Arkansas. Our Benton location is at 1716 Military Road, and our Bryant location is at 5914 Highway 5 North.
“When you donate to Goodwill, your donations stay local,” said Wamsley. “Your generosity helps a fellow Arkansan skill up and get help from job searching to interview practice so that they can obtain a good job, earn a paycheck and support their families.”
Goodwill donations are tax deductible. For a list of acceptable items, visit GoodwillAR.org.
About Goodwill Industries of Arkansas
Goodwill Industries of Arkansas is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization celebrating 90 years of changing lives through education, training and employment in 2017. Revenue generated through the sale of reusable donated goods at Goodwill retail stores is used to create jobs and fund these critical training programs for Arkansans. Last year, Goodwill offered 224,043 services to 27,870 individuals in Arkansas. In addition, Goodwill helped 4,547 Arkansans attain jobs with businesses statewide. Information may also be found at GoodwillAR.org.