TYLER, Texas — Goodwill Industries of East Texas, Inc., has announced they are closing their stores temporarily in response to the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic.
As of the close of business Friday, the organization will close all 15 of its retail store operations to the public until April 4.
Staff will work through the weekend to deep clean and sanitize all locations.
Donations will be accepted through the weekend during the hours of 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. on Saturday and 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. on Sunday using the “car-to-cart” method to limit as much personal contact as possible.
Their Mission Services Division has ceased, but all IT and Digital Skills courses are continuing remotely with online and virtual classes. They will continue with our Commercial Services Contracts with a reduced staff to fulfill the open manufacturing orders for our state and business partners.
"We have continued to actively monitor and respond to the COVID-19 virus in our community," the organization said. "Our immediate concern is the health and safety of our employees, program participants, customers and donors. We take this responsibility seriously and have been monitoring local and national news, and seeking guidance from the CDC and Goodwill Industries International on handling this situation. Our objective is two-fold: 1) prioritize health and safety and 2) protect our employees’ financial livelihood. As such, we will do everything possible to sustain company operations and come out of this crisis stronger together. Our staff will be paid during our 10-day furlough and they will receive full benefits paid 100% by Goodwill."
For more information on the coronavirus, text "FACTS" to (903) 600-2600.