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Parksville bottle depot gets into spirit of Christmas giving

Due to COVID-19, people have been donating returnables
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The Sociey of Organized Services Christmas program coordinator April Deleau, left, accepts a giant replica cheque worth $2,500 from Parksville Bottle & Recycling Depot owner Louise Tyler and staff. (MIchael Briones photo)

The Parksville Bottle & Recycling Depot has been in the spirit of giving lately.

The owners, Louise and Neil Tylers, have been receiving an overwhelming number of donated bottles since last April.

Louise said due to COVID-19, many people have been dropping off returnables without wanting money in return.

“It was overwhelming,” Louise described. “We didn’t expect to get so much.”

The couple and their staff decided to pass on the proceeds from the donated bottles to non-profit groups in the region that deals with shelter, food and medicine. Since April, Neil said they’ve donated around $40,000 to date.

RELATED: Put your returnable to work for local charities

On Wednesday afternoon, Nov. 4, two non-charitable groups, the Parksville SPCA and the Society of Organized Services, were the latest recipients of cheques worth $2,500 each.

“They’re just amazing,” said Nadine Durente of the Parksville SPCA. “The money we received will go towards buying medicines for the animals that we care for.”

For the SOS, the money will go towards its Caring for Community at Christmas Program, which ensures local children and youth experience the spirit of Christmas as well as held adults and seniors celebrate the magic of the holiday season with joy and dignity.

Co-ordinator April Deleau said they’re extremely grateful for the donation and the generosity of the owners and staff at the depot.

Michael.Briones@pqbnews.com

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Michael Briones

About the Author: Michael Briones

I rejoined the PQB News team in April 2017 from the Comox Valley Echo, having previously covered sports for The NEWS in 1997.
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