Brenda Metcalf, with Richland County Solid Waste, is co-sponsoring ‘Stuff the Bins’ for the third straight year. The drive began on June 3 and continues until the end of August. It invites members of the community to donate school supplies for the children of Richland County. Because it is sponsored by Richland County Solid Waste, they encourage recycled supplies when possible: scissors and backpacks, for example can be reused.
Metcalf was inspired when she saw ‘Stuff the Bus’ advertised in Cleveland. She tried ‘Stuff the Bus’ the first year, but she said, “We tried it the first year, but it was just too much for one person to handle. That is when we switched to the recycling bins, because it was easier to manage and keep track of.”
Recycling bins are placed in businesses throughout Richland County including: Frito-Lay, School Specialty, Startek, Gorman Rupp, and Newman Technologies. Metcalf said, “The main reason behind this is to help the kids of Richland County.” Spiral notebooks, black and blue pens, rounded-point scissors, rulers, and highlighters are just a few of the items that can be donated.
There are currently about 18 bins throughout Richland County, and that number is expected to keep growing. “Right now I am looking at 18 bins being out, but that number will be expanding,” said Metcalf. Recycling bins are set up for the public to donate, too. The bins are relatively large and green. There is a description on the bin that lets donators aware of what the bin represents. Some locations where bins can be found include Chase Bank, Mechanics Bank, and Sutton Bank.
Metcalf appreciates all of the participating businesses for showing support, “Any business that participates, we want to show them how many kids they helped.” Last year, Texas Roadhouse encouraged customers to donate school supplies. She said, “Previously, Texas Roadhouse gave their customers a free appetizer if they donated school supplies. It’s been great to see the feedback from the community. We want to pull together to help the schools and the kids of Richland County.”
For more information on donations and locations of bins, call 419-774-5861 or visit www.richlandrecycles.com.
