Bethlehem Inn announced that their Redeemables Program will begin a 90-day transition over to Brightside Animal Shelter effective May 1.
“It is with mixed emotions that Inn management made the decision that we can no longer manage our Redeemables Program,” stated Gwenn Wysling, Bethlehem Inn executive director. “When this program started over six years ago, the region was in the middle of a deep recession. Many people staying at the Inn did not have jobs at that time, so they were able to help sort and organize the redeemable bottles and cans for pick up. Today, the employment picture is much different.
“We are truly grateful for all of the amazing support the community provided Bethlehem Inn through their donations of bottles and cans over the years. Because the community support of this program has been so significant, a decision was made to seek out another nonprofit that could benefit from its strength.”
With a robust recycling program already in place, a natural fit appeared to be Brightside Animal Shelter. The two organizations met and instantly agreed on an easy transition that will begin in May. Effective May 1, Brightside will place their trailers on-site at the Inn to accept redeemables donated by the community. These trailers will remain on the grounds of the Inn through July to help ease the transition to the animal shelter.
Wysling adds “We are grateful that the Redeemables Program will continue under the leadership of Brightside.”
Bethlehem Inn is the largest emergency shelter in Central and Eastern Oregon, providing shelter, clothing and support services to over 1,100 adults and children along with over 70,000 meals to those in crisis. Call 541-322-8768 or visit www.bethleheminn.org for more information.
