GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Some stores will start taking cans and bottle returns soon, and one local non-profit hopes you’ll donate yours to help addicts in recovery.
The Alano Club of Kent County helps people fight their addictions.
It already shut its doors for three months due to the pandemic which is why it’s now asking for help with a can drive.
“We did have to get creative this year, said Nick Cetlinski, Director of Donor Relations. “You know I think it’s a great time for it right now because the stores are not taking the deposits so that it what we want is people to bring us their cans and bottles we ask that you don’t bring alcoholic bottles. But we’ll take what you got we’re not gonna turn anyone down.”
The agency has a bin outside its location on College Avenue Northeast. The container was donated to help the club.
“They painted it, installed a door on it and delivered it all free of charge and if anybody is interested in donating, they can drop them off in front of the container,” said Nick.
It’ll be open from 9am to 1pm Monday through Friday for you to give. Collections will last at least through the end of the month.
“It does take a lot to keep our doors open 365 days a year which is why we do three big fundraisers every year,” said Nick. “I’m hoping our next two are gonna go good but we generally have about 1,500 people a week coming in there looking for help with addiction.”
The cans and money will really help because their location provides them with a safe place to go and covers more than 17 addiction programs.
The bills add up for the non-profit including electricity, food permits, licensing fees, and several employees to cover.
No one pays for services so all donations really help.
“We are slowly opening our doors we’re trying to stay aligned with the governor’s guidance, but right now we’re open Monday-Friday from 9-to-1, then Saturday from 1130-1 o’clock.”
Then starting next week they’ll add in a 5pm-8pm block Monday, Wednesday and Friday to help those working during the day.
“It’s a rough road, the recovery road, but it’s possible,” said Nick.
If you don’t have cans or bottles but would still like to give you can click this link to donate online.
The Alano Club of Kent County is also hosting its Red, White and Barbeque event next Saturday from 1pm to 4pm.
You can learn more about the agency and they’ll have food, games, live music, fellowship and kids are welcome.
