Yale New Haven Hospital volunteers partner with West River Services Corporation in their annual litter cleanup along the West River neighborhood.
Bags of litter, plastic bottles, and debris were all removed from the streets of the West River neighborhood in New Haven on May 17.
Volunteers worked together for the cleanup near the new home of the Adams Neuroscience Center.
“Communities that invest in themselves are communities that prosper,” said Virginia Spell, president of West River Services Corporation.
The cleanup was organized through a partnership between Yale New Haven Hospital (YNHH) and the West River Services Corporation. It was part of their mission to encourage curb appeal, starting at the street level.
Supplies were provided by the City of New Haven Public Works Department at no cost.
“They need to see that behavior modeled which is really what we’re doing. We’re modeling for our communities so that they see it’s okay to step outside your porch and cleanup around your house,” added Spell.
The turnout of volunteers was small, but mighty.
Volunteers proved a little effort can make a big difference while showing just how much people care about the place they call home.
“Fast food bags, Dunkin Donut bags, Gatorade bottles, soda bottles, all things that as a community, as an individual – I think we have to look at that and say how can we do better?” said Jessica Scandiffio, a volunteer with YNHH.
The cleanup sent a simple message that left a big impact – taking pride in the community starts with small actions and it all begins with keeping it clean.
“Throw it in the trash. Wait until you go home. Don’t just throw it out the window,” added Scandiffio.
There will be another West River Cleanup on June 21 from 10 a.m. to 5p.m.
The cleanup will take place at West River Memorial Park by canoe and on foot. Gloves and bags will be provided.
