To the editor:
I would like to take this opportunity to encourage all businesses and people who love animals to begin collecting and recycling bottles and cans in support of our local animal shelters. For years I donated monies to the Presque Isle Animal Shelter, because I had the extra finances and strongly support what these shelters do. I still donate when I can, but like many in this economy, I find “extra” money for donations very far and few between.
I began by simply taking my recyclables and my mom’s to Presque Isle Redemption on the corner of Main St. and the Washburn Rd., which simply keeps a tab of containers brought in for the Presque Isle Animal Shelter and cuts a check directly to them in a timely matter. Then I told some neighbors what I was doing and being animal lovers themselves, offered their recyclables for me to collect and turn in.
This was such a success I approached my employer, Burrell’s, about placing a box specifically for employees who wished to donate their containers. Being a business that is very charitable and community-minded they were very willing to participate. Another nearby business very generously allows me to collect bottles and cans from their premises as well when on my breaks and lunch hour. To both of these businesses I give a huge thank you on behalf of the cats and dogs who so desperately need our help.
I’m also constantly looking for new opportunities. For example, the two weeks the National Guard was in town I asked if they would allow me to collect their bottles and cans and they graciously gave permission. (By the way, I was extremely impressed with the way these men and women conducted themselves while here. They did themselves proud.)
Just to show how these bottles and cans add up, in one six-week period, the redemption center was able to send a check to the PIAS for well over $200! I want to send out a big thank you to all those who aid in this endeavor and I’d like to encourage all those who love animals to do the same.
Businesses, especially, can make a large impact by starting programs where receptacles are placed for employees to discard their bottles and cans in specially marked containers for the animals. I would especially encourage our two large community colleges to do likewise. I know they encourage community involvement and this is a huge and painless way their students can make an impact.
Recycling, in and of itself, is a great thing to do for our environment, and we can double the good we do by donating the proceeds to these animal shelters who so desperately need the funds to carry on their very important, companionate work. So, please do whatever you can. Thank you.
Presque Isle
