Goodwill Launches ClothingWorks Program in Hamilton
Goodwill Launches ClothingWorks Program for Job Seekers Thanks to $73,300 OTF Grant from Ontario Government
Goodwill Industries, Ontario Great Lakes celebrated the Grand Opening of a new space and program that will give job seekers the clothing, coaching, and confidence to succeed, funded by a $73,300 Seed grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). Local MPP Robin Lennox met with the team at Goodwill to launch the ClothingWorks by Goodwill program and recognize the grant used to expand services to community members seeking employment opportunities.
“This new and unique employment service means that people in Hamilton Centre will have access to personalized coaching in a safe and supportive space. Being able to obtain the right attire for work or an interview, without worrying about the cost, could be what helps set someone on the path to stable employment and economic independence,” said Robin Lennox, MPP for Hamilton Centre. “Goodwill Industries, Ontario Great Lakes serves as an essential support in our community, helping our residents change their lives through the power of work, and we congratulate them on receiving this grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation in order to further their mission.”
The ClothingWorks program will reduce barriers to employment for Hamilton job seekers by providing personalized appointments at the ClothingWorks boutique, with in-person consultations and quality job-interview clothing at no cost. The program aims to support 150 clients in its first year at the new boutique space located on the ground floor of the Goodwill corporate offices at 225 King William Street.
In 2023, nearly 40% of all job seekers who participated in Goodwill’s Employment Service programs required financial assistance to purchase work-related supports such as interview and job-appropriate outfits, footwear, and accessories. ClothingWorks is designed to not only provide quality professional clothing to those looking for employment, but to ensure they are comfortable and confident entering an interview or new job.
“Goodwill is here to help people on their employment journeys, which can be a challenging and vulnerable experience,” says Bev Kobe, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries, Ontario Great Lakes. “When you think about the outfit you wore on your last interview, it perhaps made you feel confident – like you were deserving of the opportunity. ClothingWorks by Goodwill is opening the doors to a new space that will inspire hope and dignity to hundreds of people in our community.”
The program will offer clothing in all sizes, and in a diverse range of styles including culturally appropriate items. ClothingWorks’ boutique is stocked through the support of community donations from individuals and local businesses, reflecting the commitment to sustainability and circularity at the heart of how Goodwill operates.
As part of Goodwill’s mission, changing lives and communities through the power of work, the program operates in collaboration with other partners and agencies to expand its impact. Clients are referred to the program by a registered community partner or through Goodwill Employment Services.
