Celebrate Earth Day by showing your support for Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity (GSHFH). That’s right, Greater Springfield Habitat offers several initiatives that benefit and better the environment and our partner families. Plus, our small Hampden County affiliate uses “green” resources and products when available.
Cars for Homes Greater Springfield Habitat supports Habitat for Humanity International’s car donation program. Better known as “Cars for Homes,” the project accepts endowments of nearly all vehicles – including automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, recreation vehicles, farm and construction equipment, and boats. After the vehicle is picked up, it’s either sold on behalf of Habitat for Humanity or to a salvage yard. Reusable parts are removed and vehicles that can be recycled are turned into steel. When donating, the vehicle’s Certification of Title is required. A personal request from the donor or zip code used in the registration paperwork will ensure GSHFH receives revenue from the donation. On a monthly basis, it’s estimated 78-86% of proceeds are given to local Habitat affiliates, according to Habitat sources. For more information, visit habitatspringfield.org/cars-for-homes
Can donations
Greater Springfield Habitat also accepts donations of empty, clean aluminum cans. Recycling has numerous benefits and when enough are collected, aluminum cans may be turned into construction materials, according to Novelis, a recycling company and partner of Habitat for Humanity. For instance, 400 cans can be turned into a 2-foot by 4-foot beam; 3,000 cans can be made into a mailbox; and 400,000 cans can be manufactured into a 1,200-square-foot roof. Cans given to GSHFH are recycled at a nearby collection center and proceeds are used within the affiliate. For more information, call (413) 739-5503.
Planet Green ink recycling
Planet Green, an ink cartridge remanufacturing company, offers an easy way for people to recycle and support an organization. Simply mail four or more used ink cartridges from your home or business by placing them in a bag or box and seal it shut. Print a free shipping label using GSHFH’s program code 32070 and mail out the package. Greater Springfield Habitat will soon receive a check. To make a donation, visit planetgreenrecycle.com
Hemp Wool Most recently, GSHFH invested in Hempitecture’s Hemp Wool, a hemp-based insulation that is 89.9% biobased and is recognized by the USDA as such. A biobased product is one that is primarily made up of organic products. The Hemp Wool is nontoxic and doesn’t produce any volatile organic compounds, which many household items – including paints, stains, pesticides, aerosol sprays, room deodorizers, new carpets, and new furniture – often do. There are no health risks, such as cancer-related warnings with Hemp Wool with its installation and it’s vapor permeable. Because of that, the Hemp Wool is resistant to mold. Additionally, it’s not itchy nor does it irritate skin like its traditional mineral wool or fiberglass counterpart. Hemp Wool insulation has been installed at the two Holyoke build sites. To follow this project and others, visit habitatspringfield.org/projects
Support our affiliate and green initiatives today and every day at habitatspringfield.org