Seven-year-old Clara DeCoste is short on words but big on love for the environment and for those in Squamish who may not have a home.
The young Valleycliffe resident recently started her own Squamish recycle business, Cool Chick Recycling Pick Up Squamish, that has its own Facebook page. Squamish residents can call, email or private message to have Clara come and get their refundable recycling.
Recycling is important, Clara said.
“Put more things not in the ocean,” she explained simply.
Clara said she was also inspired to start her business because she wants to “help the homeless.”
The money she gets from cashing in recyclables is divided into jars, her mom Amanda explained, for helping and for saving. She takes the money from the helping jar and buys things someone without a lot of money might need, such as “deodorant, toothbrushes, warm clothes, chocolate, pants,” Clara shyly said.
Her mom says the business teaches Clara about money management and about helping out when and where there is an opportunity.
Clara has long been concerned about those who don’t have a home, Amanda said, adding that one year at Halloween Clara saw a homeless person and insisted on rushing home and donating her candy, as well as a blanket the family kept in the car.
The family moved to Squamish in October from Fort McMurray, where Clara had also been collecting recyclables.
“Now coming here we thought we would give back to this community,” Amanda said.
The District of Squamish’s sustainability coordinator, Shannon White, is impressed by Clara’s initiative in Squamish so far.
“I’m inspired to see Clara take such initiative to help the earth and those in need in her community, at such a young age. I hope she will be an inspiration to others as we grapple with the challenges of working towards zero waste. Way to go Clara!”
To contact Cool Chick Recycling Pick Up Squamish call 604-698-8345 or email [email protected].
