The SMP/S program recycles newspapers, junk mail, phone books, hard back books and cardboard. There are nine recycle bins located around the church and school. Over the past five years we have collected on average 177 tons of materials.

For the year 2011, SMP/S recycling efforts have collected 224.63 tons of material, which in turn has generated $5,615 in payments from the Abitibi Paper Recycler program. For the year 2011, both tonnage and revenue are up 11% over the prior year.

These results help us carry out the expanded ministry of the emergency assistance programs: providing food for the hungry; general assistance with transportation; and, miscellaneous household emergency expenses including rent assistance and utility shut-off assistance. The recycling program provides only 27% of the total expenses for our emergency assistance programs.

Our cumulative collection of 885 tons of recycle materials continues to demonstrate our stewardship of precious natural resources. Thanks to all who have participated and continued to expand our efforts. If you have not started recycling your newspapers, junk mail, phone books, hard back books and cardboard, please join us in this effort. Recycle bins are located in the lower-level parking lot and in the parking lot next to the rectory. For those who are part of the effort thanks!

Stewardship Challenge

As we continue to expand ways to increase our involvement as a "stewardship parish" we would like to challenge all of our 2,500 parish families to make recycling a part of their stewardship efforts. An average family generates 40 lbs. of recycled newspaper and junk mail per month. Our current efforts generate 15 lbs. per family per month.

We can expand our ministry to those in need and continue to protect the environment. The goals for the challenge: 100% participation, and doubling our average to 22 lbs. per family per month.