At MakeWay, our shared platform is home to over 60 projects based from coast to coast to coast. Initiatives benefit from the support of a mission-aligned community, charitable expertise, and shared resources, so they can focus on the work closest to their heart. Over the autumn, we’ve been sitting down with our shared platform projects to learn more about what they do, and share what they’re up to.
Recently, we connected with Binners’ Project: a group of waste-pickers aided by support staff dedicated to improving their economic opportunities, and reducing the stigma they face as informal recyclable collectors. Binners positively contribute to our environment by diverting waste from landfills.
What is a binner? A Binner is a person who collects redeemable containers and other items from bins to sustain their livelihood and to divert waste from landfills.
How did your project get started (who/what/when)? In 2015, Co-founders Anna, Gabby and Ken (who is a former binner) began consulting with local binners regularly to determine what their needs were and create innovative solutions to meet these needs. These consultations have evolved into our weekly Binners’ Meeting which forms the core of our work and ensures Binners’ Project remains grassroots.
What is your purpose? Binners’ Project is a group of waste-pickers aided by support staff dedicated to improving their economic opportunities, and reducing the stigma they face as informal recyclable collectors. We operate social enterprise programs that have the triple benefit of generating income for binners, increasing their social inclusion, and diverting waste from landfills.
What brought you to the MakeWay shared platform? Binners’ Project joined MakeWay’s shared platform from its inception in 2015.
What exciting things are coming up for you at Binners‘?
On November 5th, we will be hosting our 3rd annual fundraiser, and this year we’ll host it virtually on Zoom. We will be gathering for an evening of storytelling where we will celebrate the hard work of our binner members, and there will be an opportunity for the community to help us reach our fundraising goal
During this challenging year, Binners’ Project revenues have declined by over $350,000, the majority of which was tied to income opportunities for binners. In the interim we have been helping our members with an income replacement that they receive weekly at our Binners Meetings. As we’ve reopened, binners are still working, but so far, we are only able to provide roughly 50% of the shifts we had available at this time last year. They need your support more than ever. You can register here to ensure you receive the link to the Zoom event!
For more information about Binners’ Project, check out their website! See opportunities to work together? Reach out to their Project Specialist, Danielle Johnston. MakeWay’s shared platform provides operational support, governance and charitable expertise for changemakers. The shared platform enables more time and money to go towards achieving greater impact. MakeWay is a national charity that builds partnerships and solutions to help nature and communities thrive together.
