Goodwill Store Opens in Avon Lake

The , the Avon Lake Goodwill Store, is officially open. The store, which occupies the space formerly used by before it moved to the front of the plaza, sells donated gently used clothing, knick knacks, and small household and gift items.

It is the seventh Goodwill Store in Lorain County.

Bob Rees, president of Goodwill Industries of Lorain County gave a brief speech before the June 14 ceremony and said the Avon Lake store has more of a "boutique" feel than the other stores. 

“What this store opening means is an opportunity for us to help people with barriers to employment, disabilities, and other things we think in society shouldn’t happen,” Rees said. “Like vets who can’t get places, elderly who can’t get places.”

Goodwill provides a van service for those who need assistance in that area.

Rees said the donations from Lorain County Goodwill stores “keep 116 employed.”

“It’s 116 families that you’re helping keep food on the table, sheltered and clothed.”

Rees said Avon Lake was selected because there was a need for people who wanted to donate in the county to help local people.

“Helping people in Africa and other places is fine,” Rees said. “But these are our neighbors and friends and sometimes our families.”

City and county dignitaries, including County Commissioner Lori Kokoski,  and Lorain County Chamber of Commerce president Frank DeTillio were present for the opening.