Most people know about Goodwill Industries through shopping or donating to our thrift stores. If you have done either of these,THANK YOU!

What many people don’t know is Goodwill uses the revenue from these stores to provide training, and employment services and community employment to those with barriers such as a disability or a background of disadvantage.  Donating and shopping at Goodwill stores changes lives through these services!  Through Goodwill, these individuals, their families and other members of our community gain self-esteem and become independent, self-sufficient citizens.  They feel proud to have gained work skills and subsequently a paycheck which allows them to contribute to their own well being.

Goodwill was conceived in 1902 by Edgar J. Helms, a Methodist minister in Boston. He created jobs by collecting unwanted household goods, then employing people to repair and resell them. The income from resold goods paid the worker’s wages. In turn, the reclaimed items became available to anyone at affordable prices. His motto was “a Hand Up not a Hand Out“.  Goodwill Industries of East Texas, Inc. continues to provide the spirit of that mission today.

Goodwill Industries of East Texas is committed to serving the East Texas area by currently operating two stores in Tyler, and 13 stores in the surrounding towns of Longview, Mineola, Mabank, Canton, Athens, Palestine, Henderson, Kilgore, Gladewater, Marshall, Carthage, Center, and Whitehouse. Customers can find budget-friendly items such as gently used clothing, furniture, household items, yard art, tools, electronics, vintage and antiques and trendy, one of a kind items! If you love treasure hunting, Goodwill of East Texas is for you!

It is the mission of Goodwill Industries of East Texas, Inc. to provide skills training and vocational opportunities for people with barriers to employment.

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Goodwill Industries of East Texas wishes to thank our generous and valuable community partnerships!