Oak Lawn Preschoolers Want Your Plastic

OAK LAWN, IL – The preschoolers of the Oak Lawn Park District are aiming to collect 1,000 pieces of Level Two Recyclable Plastics to be transformed into a “Buddy Bench” that will be placed at the Oak View Center and Museum, 4625 W. 110th St.

The park district has partnered with Niagara Cares and the National Recreation and Parks Association to collect recyclable materials to be repurposed into the benches.

Drop off your plastic items from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Oak View Center and Museum, 4625 W. 110th St. from now through Oct. 15. A decorated garbage bin will be available to collect the following items:

• Milk Jugs
• Shampoo Bottles
• Detergent Bottles
• OTC Medicine Bottles
• Water Bottle Caps

Please make sure to check the containers for a number “2” recycling symbol and are cleaned with hot water before donating. Items will also be collected at the Conservation Jamboree event, set for Saturday, Sept. 27 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Oak Lawn Park District Prairie (formerly Chicago Ridge Prairie), 105th Street and Menard.

Sammie’s Buddy Bench Project was founded by Sammie Vance in 2017 at the age of eight as an easy way for kids to find companionship. After learning about the concept of buddy benches, she set out to bring one to her elementary school—but with a sustainable twist. Her first step was community outreach, asking local families and businesses to donate their discarded plastic.

Niagara Cares is the philanthropic division of Niagara Bottling, which supports organization that enrich the lives of children and families in need. Niagara Bottling is a family owned and operated beverage manufacturer that provides healthy hydration options for families across the United States.