Living Amazing in 2012 with Goodwill

Stories that Warm the Heart

Posted by Holly Hirsch on Feb 1, 2012 4:45:00 PM

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Goodwill Cares is a program initiated by Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin and Metropolitan Chicago to provide assistance with clothing, furniture and other household items for individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness, fires, domestic abuse, illness, or those who are unemployed and/or underemployed. Referrals for assistance come through local non-profit agencies in communities where Goodwill Store & Donation Centers are located. These partnerships enable Goodwill to actively improve the quality of life for individuals in need. Annually, the Goodwill Cares program provides this much needed assistance to more than 7,800 individuals and families. Below are just a few of the many success stories that are made possible through the Goodwill Cares program.

Women & Children's Horizons, Inc.

(Names have been changed.) Gina separated from her abusive husband in the summer of 2011. She obtained a small apartment for herself and her two children (ages 14 and 9), however, she didn't have any furniture, as her husband would not let her take any of the furniture from their home. For a few months, she and the children slept on the floor in sleeping bags/blankets, while she continued hoping her husband would let her have some furniture. It was hard for Gina to ask for help. With the help of Goodwill vouchers available through Women's & Children's Horizons, Inc., Gina was able to furnish her new apartment so that it was comfortable for her and the children. She was able to get beds, a couch, a table and chairs and some end-tables with the Goodwill vouchers. She is very grateful for the help in her time of need.

Lazarus House

(Names have been changed.) Sandra is a single mother of four young children. Her family found themselves without a home of their own in the summer of 2011. With the start of the school year fast approaching her case manager was privileged to accompany this family to our local Goodwill store to outfit these children for the upcoming school year. They started classes with their friends and looked as spiffy and proud as any child on their first day of school. Sandra knew that in her search for employment she would need to put her “best foot forward.” Again, because of the generosity of Goodwill, Sandra’s case manager was able to bring her shopping at Goodwill which resulted in her finding just the right clothes. We are happy to report that Sandra found a job that she is very proud of and is in the process of supporting her family.

Naperville CARES

The mission of Naperville CARES is to provide short-term support and resources to meet the basic needs of local families in crisis. Having access to the Goodwill vouchers is a wonderful resource for our clients and they truly appreciate the ability to "shop" with dignity at your store. Thank you for providing such a valuable resource to our clients.

Topics: Stories that Warm the Heart