LIHU‘E — “We’re back,” announced David Chung of The Salvation Army Honolulu Adult Rehabilitation Center Friday when Chung and his HARC crew were greeted with a strong showing of residents turning in recyclable materials at the Kaua‘i Resource Center near Lihu‘e Airport.
“We couldn’t come over in December because you know how busy The Salvation Army gets during the holidays.”
More than 100 vehicles trooped through the drive-thru drop-off within the first two hours of the monthly recycling program coordinated through the county Department of Public Works Solid Waste Division.
“We’ve already got one shipping container packed for shipping,” said Shantel Rego of the Solid Waste Division. “One container was already shipped out, and now we’re starting to collect for the next container. On the average, the HARC recycling produces about two containers each month.”
During the monthly Salvation Army donation event, residents, businesses and other organizations can bring unwanted or unneeded reuse items, including clothing, small furniture, children’s toys, books and shoes. Clothing and textiles do not need to be in good condition, and torn and stained clothing is accepted.
“You should have seen the first load,” said Mike Laureta, whose pickup nearly overflowed with material. “I even brought them a surfboard this time.”
During the drive-thru drop-off, customers maintained social distancing, wore face masks, and followed directions from the county and HARC staff, many not needing to leave their vehicles unless specifically pointing out materials for recycling.
The next Salvation Army HARC donation event is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 12, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Kaua‘i Resouce Center.
•••
Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
