This event is part of an ongoing monthly effort to revitalize downtown through the simple act of picking up litter. Since these events began in September, more than 2,300 volunteers have removed nearly 23,000 pounds of trash from business fronts, sidewalks, and green spaces.
Pre-registration for this event is required and volunteers are encouraged to check-in during a forty-five-minute window from 8:45 AM to 9:30 AM the morning of the 29th. This staggered check-in approach means that volunteers can receive instruction and cleanup supplies without crowding in one area. All volunteers are required to wear a mask at all times and maintain social distancing throughout the event, among other safety measures.
The April 29th Downtown Litter Cleanup Day comes only a couple of weeks after SOLVE’s Earth Day event, the Oregon Spring Cleanup, presented by Portland General Electric. This statewide event hosted dozens of cleanups throughout Oregon and engaged over 3,500 volunteers. Here in Portland, 60 volunteers tackled the Central Eastside Industrial District and removed 3,200 pounds of trash from the Eastbank Esplanade and other areas.
This event is about more than just cleaning up litter. SOLVE’s Downtown Monthly Cleanup events bring hundreds of volunteers downtown, increasing foot traffic to businesses and parks in the area. SOLVE is also partnering with Transition Projects to host a hygiene product drive. Interested volunteers can bring full sized shampoo bottles, new underwear or socks, sunscreen, toothpaste, etc. and drop it off at collection bins at the start of downtown event. Volunteers who are interested in participating can see a full list of needed goods on SOLVE’s website, www.solveoregon.org.
Each piece of litter collected prevents potential pollution of nearby waterways, like the Willamette River. Disposal for the event is donated by Central City Concern.
About SOLVE
SOLVE is a statewide non-profit organization that brings Oregonians together to improve our environment and build a legacy of stewardship. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots group to a national model of volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains tens of thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas, and to build a legacy of stewardship for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information.
About Portland Business Alliance
The Portland Business Alliance is greater Portland’s Chamber of Commerce. Our mission is to create opportunity and advance well-being for all who live and work in the greater Portland and SW Washington region. Our vision is a healthy and resilient business ecosystem. Visit PortlandAlliance.com for more information.
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Contact Info:
Larissa Gordon, SOLVE | 860-942-9108 | larissa@solveoregon.org
Amy Lewin, Portland Business Alliance | 503-475-3010 | alewin@portlandalliance.com