WTMC Refugee Assisting Fundraiser

June 6, 2023 Rebecca Andrews

7000 Bottles Recycled by WTMC Refugee Help Association Raise $700 for Freedom House Detroit

Partnering with WCC’s Recycle Department, WTMC’s RHA (Refugee Help Association) has raised over $700 to assist refugees in SE Michigan. RHA is a student-led club at WTMC devoted to helping improve the lives of refugees in our area. Many refugees arrive here without even the bare essentials to start a new life. Fortunately, there are organizations, like Freedom House Detroit, where refugees can find support in housing, overcoming legal hurdles, and getting the basic necessities they need. 

Zizi Khatib, a 9th grader at WTMC, started RHA with the sole purpose of making life better for refugees in need. Working with Faculty Advisor Adam Sherfield, and Becky Andrews, Resource Recovery Manager, RHA have been able to recycle returnable cans and bottles discarded on campus and put the funds from those returns to great use. The project not only raised funds but benefited the environment.

The RHA team returned over 7000 returnable bottles and in just a few months raised $700 for Freedom House Detroit, the donation will be made on June 16th. Not only did they raise money for a great cause but the recycling of 7000 bottles saved enough energy to run a laptop for 1780 hours. 

WTMC Refugee Assist FundraiserThis project was a triple Bottom Line initiative, benefiting People, Planet, and Profits. 

“We were happy to partner on a project raising funds for a good cause, assist with a student led initiative, and maximize recycling at WCC. Such a projects would not be possible without Students, Faculty, Custodians, and Recycling Technicians, all working together,” said Becky Andrews Resource Recovery Manager.

Those who wish to learn more about recycling at WCC can contact Becky at [email protected] or see the Recycling Services Website.

Tags: Recycling, Sustainability, refuge, reuse

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