Goodwill Industries has quadrupled its footprint in Porterville, expanding with a new 15,000 square-foot store and donation center. Photo via Goodwill Industries
Written by Ben Hensley
Goodwill Industries of South Central California celebrated the grand opening Aug. 6 of its new Porterville store and donation center, marking an expansion of the organization’s presence in the community.
Goodwill first opened its doors in the Porterville area in 2011. Since then, the nonprofit has provided jobs for local residents and given a second life to clothing and goods donated by the community.
The new store, located at 1491 Olive Ave., is four times the size of the previous location. It offers shoppers an expanded experience inside the 15,000-square-foot store. Built from the ground up, it also includes a drive-thru donation option for residents.
In addition to the current staff of 13, the new store will add six full-time jobs. These 19 full-time positions have access to health, retirement and other benefits.
“Our team is excited to provide local residents with job opportunities, training, and a larger selection of items from small appliances and sports equipment to home decor and clothing,” said Goodwill Industries of South Central California CEO and President Jake Slayton.
Goodwill credits the expansion to contributions from the local community, which have allowed the company to better serve its mission of providing work opportunities and skills development to people with barriers to employment.
Goodwill and the Porterville Chamber of Commerce hosted the grand opening celebration, which included a raffle.
“We are honored by the support that the Porterville community has shown Goodwill over the years,” Slayton said.
Porterville Store Details:
1491 Olive Ave, Porterville, CA 93257
Store Hours: 9am – 8pm
Drive Thru Donation Center: 8am – 7pm