Goodwill Industries of Kentucky celebrates impact of expungement program

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Goodwill Industries of Kentucky is sharing the success of its expungement program during Second Chance Month.

According to a release by Goodwill Industries, the program successfully cleared 6,680 records in 2024.

The release says expungement is a legal process that enables individuals who have fulfilled their obligations to society and meet the requirements for expungement, which include maintaining a clean record for five years after serving their sentence, to seal their records from public view, effectively providing them with a fresh start.

Goodwill Industries says the stigma of a criminal record can be an “overwhelming obstacle” to find work and housing.

To give a second chance, Goodwill says it partners with the Department of Corrections, Legal Aid Society of the Bluegrass, AppalReD Legal Aid and Kentucky Legal Aid to host expungement clinics.

At these clinics, the release says experienced legal professionals work with individuals to find out their eligibility for expungement. If they qualify, Goodwill then helps them through the process and provides comprehensive support for their unique situations.

Goodwill says it covers expungement fees as well.

Goodwill will continue hosting expungement clinics throughout the commonwealth in 2025, offering in-person and virtual options at its Opportunity Centers. For more information or to register for an upcoming clinic, visit GoodwillKY.org/expungements.