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08/01/2017 12:00 AMSeveral years ago, SARAH, Inc. took over operations of a previously closed bottle and can processing center and opened the SARAH Redemption Center (SRC). As a natural extension of our recycling program, the SRC became an integral part of the community—revitalizing a shopping center, providing jobs for people of all abilities and helping to protect our environment—a “win/win” for all. Because of the hard work of the SRC team, the SARAH Redemption Center has established a reputation as arguably the best run redemption center in the entire state!
“Despite our best efforts, we can’t make the redemption center work,” said SARAH, Inc. Executive Director Pat Bourne. “The basic costs of our operations continue to go up, while the handling fee we get paid to process the materials has remained the same for the past 30 years. We tried very hard to get new laws passed that would increase the handling fee to bring in enough money to help us keep our doors open. Regrettably, the legislature failed to act on any measure that would help us and other redemption centers.”
As a result, the SARAH Redemption Center will close its doors to our customers on Sept. 29.
“The decision to close the SARAH Redemption Center is difficult and in no way reflects on our employees and their efforts,” said Bourne. “We are proud of their hard work to try to make this enterprise successful. The fate of the SRC is ultimately due to circumstances beyond our control.”
It is important to note that the SRC closing will not affect SARAH Recycles. The public will continue to see the SARAH Recycles collection bins throughout the community. SARAH, Inc. encourages the public to continue to donate bottles and cans and turn nickels into paychecks for the SARAH supported recycling crews.
“We know we can count on the community’s continued support of SARAH Recycles and our mission to enhance skills and enrich lives for all people with differing abilities,” Bourne said.