Augusta - Hundreds of people were lined up in Augusta Thursday as Goodwill opened its new store.

Eager bargain hunters were lined up around the corner at the old Kennebec Journal building on Senator Way in Augusta around 9:00 a.m. as the ribbon was cut. "Construction started earlier this year and really ramped up this summer, and we're really excited to open today," said Michelle Smith of Goodwill of Northern New England.

Folks at Goodwill say they outgrew their old store and couldn't be happier with the new amenities in the new location.

A bigger location means more employees, 44 new hires to be exact, bringing the total to 75 workers on staff.

Not only is the store bigger, but they now have a donation drive thru to help folks dropping off merchandise get in and out faster. "You just drive right up and our staff will help you unload your donations."

Every dollar taken in at one of these stores goes toward one of the many programs Goodwill offers. Programs ranging from job placement and job training to one of the two brain injury rehab clinics here in Maine or the 23 residence houses for people with disabilities. "So when you shop or donate here you're helping people here find, be independent, get back in their community and lead better lives," Smith said.

Right now, every dollar counts. "Especially in these times when there's less grant money coming in, less funding from federal government and state government. The revenue from our stores really helps support our programs. People donating and people shopping," Smith said.


To learn more about the programs Goodwill offers you can go to their website http://www.goodwillnne.org/

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