Sunflower Recycling has answered the call from many Barton County residents and re-opened its drop-off site at 5523 10th, Great Bend.

“We have received many calls from Barton County residents, asking if we could re-open our drop-off recycling facility,” said Jon Prescott, Sunflower executive director. “We completely understand that our conscientious citizens want to live in a green community even during this difficult public-health crisis.

“Therefore, the facility is now open on a self-service basis. We want to accommodate all recyclers, while protecting customers and staff from the spread of COVID-19.”

Shawn Bates, Sunflower production manager, said several containers are placed just outside the large garage door on the west side of the facility. The usual types of materials are accepted, including glass, aluminum, tin cans, newspapers, magazines and cardboard.

“After careful consideration of ways to keep everyone safe, we thought this would be the best solution,” Bates said. “We appreciate everyone who recycles and want to make it as easy and convenient as possible during this difficult time.”

The containers are available from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday; Saturday hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. At the end of each day, the materials are collected and moved to the processing plant.

Bates noted that Sunflower’s confidential paper-shredding service is available also.

Customers are asked to contact Bates by calling 620-791-7813 before dropping off the paper at the plant near Great Bend Airport. The address is 8823 4th, which is just east of the old Coca-Cola warehouse.

“I want to ensure that I can meet with customers to receive these materials,” Bates explained. “They can call on me anytime.”

Sunflower, a non-profit agency, serves infants, toddlers and adults with special needs in Barton, Pawnee, Rice, Rush and Stafford counties. Many clients at Sunflower are employed in the wide-ranging recycling operation. Sunflower is in its 54th year.