
“We’ve had several groups reach out to our office who are interested in doing clean ups,” said Borough President Oddo. “I’m heartened by these groups – Scouts and others – who are willing to go out and clean up. I’d like to encourage those who are willing and able to do so to send us pictures of their work so we can thank you for doing your part to correct this self-inflicted problem.”
The Borough President and District Attorney want to caution groups to hold clean ups only where it is safe to do so, exercise safety at all times, and only clean on good quality air days.
“Litter is a problem of our own doing, yet too many of our neighbors continue to carelessly dispose of their trash on our sidewalks, streets, and parks. Not only does this selfish behavior become an eyesore and is punishable by law, we know unkept public spaces can become magnets for far more serious criminal activity,” said District Attorney McMahon. “I’m proud to join Borough President Oddo in encouraging and supporting considerate Staten Islanders to clean up after their less-thoughtful neighbors. While it should not have to be this way, together we can make our Island a cleaner and safer place.”
Local groups who are interested in hosting a cleanup and need a site to clean or need support with supplies – including masks, garbage bags, and/or gloves – should email Irene Maiello at imaiello@statenislandusa.com or Lisa Thompson at Lisa.Thompson@rcda.nyc.gov.
Groups are asked to organize themselves and take necessary safety precautions, including:
- Keep groups to 10 people or less
- Practice social distancing
- Wear a mask and gloves
- Stay hydrated
- Do not handle illicit drug paraphernalia or potentially dangerous items, report them to 311
Those who participate are encouraged to post before and after photos on social media with the hashtag #SILitterHero to be re-posted by both office’s social media accounts.