Goodwill Industries of Kansas has announced that it has purchased the former Disabled American Veterans thrift stores that recently closed in Wichita.
Ed Hartman, Inspector General of the DAV, said in a press release that the acquisition will guarantee that the Wichita community continues to benefit from access to gently-used goods and convenient donation locations. He said DAV remains committed to Veterans in the Wichita area and it will reinvest the proceeds from the sale of the four stores into services for Veterans and their families.
The DAV stores closed in September. Goodwill said the financial terms of the purchase will not be revealed.
Laura Ritterbush, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Kansas said it will be vital for Goodwill to continue the legacy of serving Veterans. Goodwill plans to launch a special initiative with the opening of a remodeled location by the summer of 2024. For the first three months after the opening, all “round-up” donations made at the register will be dedicated directly to Veteran services and support in Kansas.
Goodwill has contacted former DAV staff to offer employment opportunities and provide a smooth transition in operating the former DAV stores. Goodwill currently operates 18 stores and two e-commerce platforms in the Wichita area.
