GREENFORD- The Big Reach Center of Hope is collecting discarded electronics to help fund its mission.
The organization is working with FundingFactory Recycling Program out of Erie, Pa., collecting old electronic equipment such as empty cartridges, cell phones, small electronics and laptops and shipping them to company to earn points. The points can then be redeemed for cash or used to purchase merchandise from the company's rewards catalogue featuring technology items such as laptops or computer keyboards and school items such as gym balls or educational games.
The Center of Hope administration is encouraging the community to get involved with the initiative as well.
"In this day and age, we all want to be a little more eco-friendly, do everything we can to protect the environment," said Lisa Wallace, marketing and donations director, "Well, this program is a win-win situation because people can do that and help us raise money to feed the hungry."
Businesses can get involved by setting up their own collection site then dropping off the materials at the Center of Hope, 11767 Lisbon Road. They can also set up their own account with FundingFactory using the Center of Hope account code 156905, meaning all the money will go to the center.
Participation is free. FundingFactory sends each supporting business free prepaid shipping labels for the return of items, Wallace noted.
According to Wallace, the Center of Hope has been participating in the program for two years after she found it while searching online for fundraising opportunities. And although it has not been a featured fundraiser, it has raised $113 so far.
"[The program] hasn't really been promoted, but hopefully the community embraces it," Wallace said.
The Center of Hope provides resources and opportunities to low income and underserved individuals and families in the Mahoning Valley and surrounding communities to move toward self-sufficiency through education and training.
For information about the program call Wallace at 330-533-3278 Ext. 302 or e-mail lisa@bigreachministries.org; or visit www.FundingFactory.com or call toll-free 888-883-8237.
Kevin Howell can be reached at khowell@salemnews.net
