Over the past few years, the donation landscape has changed. If you've noticed thrift store shelves looking a little different or wondered why your donations feel more important lately, you're not alone. At Goodwill Industries of Wayne and Holmes Counties, we’ve seen three major shifts that are impacting how we serve our community:
What’s Changed with Thrift Store Donations?
1. The Rise of the Side Hustle
Apps like Facebook Marketplace, Poshmark, Mercari, and others have made it easier than ever for people to sell their gently used items. It’s quick, convenient, and can bring in some extra cash. We completely understand why more people are choosing to resell.
However, this trend means fewer quality items are being donated to nonprofit thrift stores like Goodwill. And that matters. Every item sold in our stores supports local job training, employment services, and youth programs. When those items don’t come in, our ability to fund these vital programs is affected.
2. Lower Quality Items
Fast fashion and mass-produced goods are everywhere. While they may be affordable, they often aren’t made to last. By the time they reach donation bins, many of these items are too worn out to sell.
When donations are no longer usable, they don’t support our mission. That’s why we encourage you to donate items that are gently used and still in good condition. Quality donations help stock our stores with items that shoppers want to buy, which helps fund services for people right here in Wayne and Holmes Counties.
3. More Donation Competition
From community clothing closets to resale pop-up shops, more places are asking for donations. Many of them are doing great work. But this also means more organizations are competing for a limited number of donated items.
When you choose to donate to Goodwill, you are helping support more than just affordable shopping. You are supporting people who are looking for a second chance, whether that’s through job readiness training, career coaching, or skills development. Your donation stays local and helps people in our community succeed.
How You Can Help
Here’s how you can make a big difference:
Donate to Goodwill: Bring your gently used clothing, shoes, household goods, books, and small appliances to your nearest Goodwill donation center. Every item counts.
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Think quality over quantity: Items that are clean, gently used, and in good working condition make the biggest impact. Ask yourself, “Would I give this to a friend?” If the answer is yes, it’s perfect for donation.
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Schedule a donation day: Make giving back a regular part of your routine. Set a reminder to declutter once a season and donate items you no longer need.
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Host a donation drive: Schools, workplaces, churches, and community groups can organize collection events to support Goodwill's mission. We’re happy to help you get started. Visit GoodwillConnect.org/Host-A-Drive for more info.
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Shop at Goodwill: Every purchase supports job training, skills development, and employment programs right here in Wayne and Holmes Counties.
Spread the word: Share this blog, tell your friends and neighbors, and encourage others to support Goodwill through donations, shopping, and community engagement.
Why It Matters
Your donations do more than stock our shelves. They help change lives. Every shirt, book, or blender you give helps someone build a better future. When you donate to Goodwill, you are giving people in our community real opportunities. You are giving them the chance to learn, grow, and reach their goals.
Want to make a difference today? Visit GoodwillConnect.org/Donate to find your closest donation drop-off and learn more about how your support helps change lives in Wayne and Holmes Counties.