Sunflower Recycling has entered into a contract with Larned State Hospital (LSH) and now both organizations are reaping the benefits of this recently formed partnership.
In the first two months, the recycling center processed nearly 22,000 pounds of material from LSH alone, Sunflower Executive Director Jim Johnson said.
Sunflower also has added seven other businesses in Larned to its materials-collection route.
“We are working hard to expand our services to any business in that area,” Johnson said. “Businesses benefit by counting on us to handle their recyclable materials and shred their confidential papers.
“And, what is even more important, they are helping us provide jobs for people with disabilities,” Johnson continued. “The more businesses we have the more revenue we can generate. This allows us to provide additional services to children and adults with special needs.”
Rush County also collaborates with Sunflower Recycling by collecting materials locally and then transporting them for processing and shipping.
“We encourage businesses throughout our service area to participate in our recycling efforts,” Johnson commented. “This helps us in our business of helping people lead more independent, rewarding lives.”
In addition, Johnson noted, recycling is good for the environment, which benefits everyone.
“Recycling contributes to the extended life of the landfill,” Johnson said. “Pawnee County operates as a transfer station, bringing its waste to the Barton County Landfill. By reducing the amount of material that has to be buried there, we reduce costs to taxpayers today and in the long run.”
Sarah Krom, recycling coordinator, encouraged any business interested in a partnership with Sunflower to give her a call, 620-792-1321.
“We want to expand these opportunities for the communities that have long supported our programs,” Krom said. “The businesses currently on the list have allowed us to implement this expansion and refine the processes to where we can take on more customers in the Larned area.
“Each opportunity our recycling crew has to meet customers’ needs helps with the development of strong work habits,” Krom elaborated. “And strong work habits result in well-earned paychecks and the chance to connect with other people in the community.”
Sunflower serves those with developmental disabilities and delays in Barton, Pawnee, Rice, Rush and Stafford counties.