Why Quality Matters When Donating to Goodwill

When you donate to Goodwill, you are doing more than cleaning out your closet. You are helping families in your community find affordable clothing, furniture, and household items while supporting Goodwill’s mission of job training and career development. But one important factor often gets overlooked: the quality of the items you donate.

Not all donations are the same. While we are thankful for every item that comes through our doors, the truth is that quality makes a big difference in how much impact your donation has.

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The Problem with Fast Fashion

Fast fashion has made it easy to buy inexpensive clothing at retail stores. These pieces are often made quickly and cheaply, designed to follow trends but not built to last. While they may be affordable at checkout, they usually wear out faster and do not stand up to multiple owners.

When fast fashion items are donated to Goodwill, they may already be too worn, torn, or faded to resell. That means fewer options for shoppers who rely on Goodwill for affordable clothing. It also limits the funds we can generate to support our mission programs, since items that do not sell cannot create revenue for job training and employment services.

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Why High-Quality Donations Make a Bigger Impact

When you choose to donate well-made, long-lasting items, you are giving more than clothing or furniture. You are providing someone in your community with something dependable and affordable. At the same time, you are promoting sustainable fashion by keeping quality goods in circulation and reducing landfill waste.

High-quality donations also directly strengthen Goodwill’s mission. Every purchase in our stores supports job training, skills development, and career opportunities for people right here in our community. The better the quality of the items on our shelves, the more value they create for both shoppers and programs.

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How to Donate Smarter

  • Choose quality when you shop. Buy timeless and durable items that last longer and make a bigger impact when you eventually donate them.

  • Donate with dignity. If you would feel comfortable giving the item to a friend, it is probably a good fit for Goodwill.

  • Remember that every item counts. Even one high-quality piece of clothing, furniture, or household good can make a real difference.

Make Your Donation Count

Goodwill donations are more than just items. They are opportunities for people to grow, learn, and succeed. By choosing quality over quantity, you ensure that your generosity has the greatest possible impact on both your community and the environment.

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