MANCHESTER — Goodwill Industries of Northern New England has officially opened its new Manchester store and donation center on John E. Devine Road.
“The new store offers ease of access for shoppers and donors. Ample parking, location on a bus route and a drive-through donation center makes the store fully accessible to members of the greater Manchester community,” Randy Finamore, Goodwill senior vice president of retail, said in a statement.
The renovated building features convenient drive-through donation. The new store also accepts used computer equipment through the ReConnect computer recycling program.
Gov. John Lynch was on hand Thursday to share remarks and cut the ceremonial ribbon at the store’s officials grand opening.
The new Manchester store and donation center is located in the former bingo hall at 165 John E. Devine Road, next to a Hannaford grocery and near the Mall of New Hampshire.
Engineered for Energy Star compliance, the building includes an energy-efficient heating and cooling system, polished concrete floors and large windows to reduce electricity use.
Goodwill plans to apply for Energy Star status after one year of operation.
The building is 19,250 square feet, with nearly 14,000 square feet dedicated to retail sales.
The remaining square footage will be used for donations, processing and offices.
Goodwill features donated clothing, jewelry, books, household items, and furniture, as well as a limited selection of new items.
Shoppers and donors can read about fashion tips, shopping advice and project ideas on Goodwill’s “Thrifting Adventures” blog at www.goodwillnne.org/blog.
Store and donation center hours are Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The new Manchester Goodwill store will employ nearly 60 full- and part-time staff.
