Mers/Goodwill Looks To Community For Help In Reaching Goal Of One Million Donations Before The New Year

Online, November 29, 2010 (Newswire.com) - As 2010 comes to a close, MERS/Goodwill is in need of the bi-state region's gently used clothing, shoes, accessories, books, housewares, furniture, and electronics in order to reach their goal of collecting one million donations this year. In addition to taking donations at the organization's 40 retail stores, MERS/Goodwill is also accepting donations at popular venues and events around town this holiday season.

"It's been a record year for our organization already, but 2010 is not over yet," said Dr. Lewis Chartock, President and CEO of MERS/Goodwill. "Earlier this year we set out to reach one million donations and we're almost there. I believe that the local community can help us meet and even exceed this goal in the remaining days of 2010."

MERS/Goodwill is accepting donations at the following venues and events throughout the greater St. Louis region this holiday season:
· "Kids Helping Kids" Donation Drive at CBL Malls in Chesterfield, Fairview Heights, Mid-Rivers, South County and West County. Drop off new or gently used toys and children's items November 22 - December 31, 2010.
· Bring gently used shoes to JingleFest, at the St. Charles Family Arena Sunday, December 12. All donors will be entered to win upgraded front row seats.
· Holiday Lights Recycling Campaign is taking this year's or last year's holiday lights at any of the 40 Goodwill stores until January 31, 2011.

For more information about these and other donation opportunities, visit www.mersgoodwill.org. MERS/Goodwill accepts donations seven days a week at 40 retail locations / donation sites.

About MERS/Goodwill
MERS/Goodwill is a non-profit agency that provides for the vocational needs of individuals who have barriers to employment through disability or economic disadvantage. Annually serving more than 13,000 people, the organization operates 38 service centers in 53 counties in the bi-state area. Revenues from 40 Goodwill stores and the auto donation program assist with funding MERS/Goodwill job training and employment services. MERS/Goodwill is a proud member of the United Way. For more information about MERS/Goodwill or to find a Goodwill donation center near you, call 314-241-3464 or visit www.mersgoodwill.org.