Goodwill of Southern New England to Open First "By the Pound" Outlet Store in Providence

Goodwill of Southern New England to Open First “By the Pound” Outlet Store in Rhode Island - New Providence location to bring 50+ jobs and expanded access to free job training and education programs

Providence, RI (August 20, 2025) — Goodwill of Southern New England is proud to announce the grand opening of its newest retail outlet and warehouse location at 100 Houghton Street in Providence. Slated to open in late August 2025, this 38,000+ square-foot facility will be Rhode Island’s first-ever “by the pound” Goodwill Outlet Store, offering customers the opportunity to purchase donated items at 1.89 per pound. Scales will be placed at each register.

The new location will bring over 50 new jobs to the local economy and support the organization’s growing investment in workforce development across the state. The outlet model complements Goodwill’s traditional thrift store network and is designed to increase access to affordable goods while reducing landfill waste through sustainable reuse practices.

Empowering Communities Through Jobs and Education

Revenue from the outlet and all other Goodwill retail operations directly supports free job training and education programs that serve individuals across Rhode Island and Connecticut. In the last fiscal year alone, Goodwill of Southern New England provided services to 4,315 individuals, helping them pursue employment, education, and greater self-sufficiency.

Programs offered in Rhode Island include:

· Career Coaching – Adult Workforce Development Programs
Personalized guidance in resume writing, interview prep, and training navigation to help job seekers find and maintain long-term employment.

· Supported Employment for Individuals with Disabilities
Job development, placement, and coaching services tailored to individuals with disabilities seeking competitive employment and long-term success.

· Youth Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS)
Aimed at students ages 14–22 with IEPs, 504 Plans, or documented barriers, this program equips young people with the skills needed to transition from school to work or college. Delivered in partnership with Rhode Island Vocational Rehabilitation.

“Every item donated and sold in our stores helps someone take their next step toward meaningful work, independence, and economic stability,” said Richard Borer, President of Goodwill of Southern New England. “This new outlet store brings a unique and affordable shopping experience to Providence—and more importantly, it allows us to serve more people with the tools and support they need to thrive.”

Goodwill of Southern New England currently operates five retail locations in Rhode Island and a career and technical training center. This newest outlet marks a milestone in its continued expansion and commitment to strengthening communities.

About Goodwill of Southern New England

Goodwill of Southern New England is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities by empowering people to achieve their most abundant lives through education, training, and job placement. Serving all five Rhode Island counties and 39 cities and towns, Goodwill is funded by the sale of donated items in its thrift stores and online platforms.

Learn more at www.goodwillsne.org