Goodwill Benefits As Shoppers Pinch Pennies

By Colleen Chen, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- As budget-conscious consumers begin holiday shopping, sales are up at Goodwill's across the country and Oklahoma City is no exception.

With four sons to take care of, Kathy Duggan is no stranger to shopping for bargains at Goodwill.

"If I can get it for $2 versus even $10 or $15, I'd must rather spend less money and get the same quality of stuff," Duggan said.

While she's used to flipping through the racks at her local Goodwill, she's noticed more shoppers by her side in recent months.

"I think that all of us are trying to make everything count," Duggan said.

Sales at Goodwill registers in and around Oklahoma City are up 23 percent over this time last year.

"It's hugely significant, especially when you compare it to regular retail that has seen much less," said Oklahoma Goodwill CEO, Heather Rennebohm.

The success has meant an additional 60 jobs to the metro's Goodwill staff and more help with the store's mission.

"We're able to offer service to that many more persons with disability," Rennebohm said.

Officials said not only are they seeing regular customers come more often, but also many first time Goodwill shoppers.

Goodwill believes that's because people are more aware of the need and can receive tax credits for their contribution.