Threats To Goodwill Stores Prompt Closures In Northeast Ohio

CLEVELAND — Multiple threats were made toward Goodwill stores and donation centers in Northeast Ohio this week, prompting the brand to temporarily close its facilities in the region.

"This is an extremely difficult decision that our organization has made, but one that we feel is in the best interest of our team members and the community,” said President and CEO Anne Richards. “We appreciate the public’s understanding as we navigate this challenging situation.”

The threats were made by an unidentified person, the company said. It's not clear what the nature of the threats were. Law enforcement is trying to identify who made the threats and their validity.

There are 22 retail stores and five donation centers in Ohio and West Virginia run by Goodwill Industries of Greater Cleveland and East Central Ohio. The Goodwill system in Akron has also decided to close its locations on Wednesday.

Employees will be compensated for time missed while the stores are closed.

The Ken Weber Community Campus at Goodwill will remain open on Wednesday with heightened security and officers from Canton City Police Department.