Goodwill plans new store in Cascade | News

CASCADE TOWNSHIP, Mich., (WZZM) - Even in the difficult economy -- or maybe because of the difficult economy -- second-hand stores are thriving.

"Second-hand stores, or gently-used stores, are becoming a way of life," says Jill Wallace, spokesperson for Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids.

Executives with Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids say they are expanding to meet the demand for affordable used merchandise.  Leaders with the non-profit organization says they will open a store in Cascade Township -- on Kraft Avenue near Meijer.   It will be their 16 store.

"We just opened a store in Rockford this past summer and it's been phenomenal," says Wallace. "We view the Cascade as similar. It's an untapped market for gently-used goods."

Goodwill Industries sells donated items in its stores and uses the money to train people for jobs.  Some have disabilities, some are veterans.

"It generates revenue for our job placement training programs," explains Wallace.

"Back in the day, Goodwill was probably not the place to go to get clothes," says shopper Mike Cauvel. "It wasn't like it is now. You didn't have name brands back then. I mean, everyone wants a good deal."

"Oh my gosh, I'm wearing Gloria Vanderbilt pant and I didn't pay $5 for them," laughs shopper Helen Squiers.

The Cascade Township Goodwill store is expected to open in July.