Franciscan Sister Marlene Schwaller reports on various recycling projects that our Sisters support at the Motherhouse.
Quad Parishes Paper Collection
Newspaper, magazines, book, catalogs, actually any paper lighter than Kleenex boxes-including greeting cards-are acceptable. We collect and deliver to the Quad Parishes in Green Bay, WI on a regular basis. Parishes use the money from 2 dumpsters for special parish needs or projects. We supported St. Jude Parish in repairing their church organ with our donations. St. Patrick Community did some needed painting and Annunciation Parish purchased new doors. St. Joseph’s budget received additional revenue. Parishes report that they have made over $15, 000 on paper collecting thanks to the consciousness of others who are trying to be environmentally-friendly.
Stamps
Cancelled stamps are shipped to Friars of the Assumption of the BVM Province in Pulaski, WI through our friars serving our Motherhouse. They drop them off the bundle on one of their scheduled stops. After receiving the part of the envelope with the stamp and location mark, friars study to see if there is any historical, geographical or subject value. Any profit when dealing with further collection individuals is sent to their home missions e.g. St. Francis of Assisi Mission, Greenwood, MS.
Aluminum
Aluminum cans bring in about 40 cents a pound. This feeds into our own operation. Aluminum can tabs are reserved for Habitat for Humanity. Sister Mardelle Meinholz is our connection to that organization.
Other
Batteries which are not only bad for the environment, but also a fire hazard, are collected and given to someone who insures a safe way of disposing of them.
Electronic devices -anything with a chord-are recycled by an individual who promises to keep all materials in the United States.
Plastic tops from bottles eventually go to a company that melts them down and makes wheelchairs for people who can’t afford them. Sister Annette Blonde became aware of this possibility. A local person received one of the wheel chairs.
