A school in Greater São Paulo has collected plastic caps and can tabs for two years, sending the materials to an NGO every 15 days. The organization sells recycled plastic to companies and uses the proceeds to help children from low-income families who are receiving cancer treatment.
The school is one of 300 collection points operated by the NGO across ten states. Volunteers clean and sort the caps before they are sold. The initiative recycles between 15 and 20 tonnes of plastic each month, according to the report.
Students and teachers say the project combines environmental education with social support. Student Eduarda Santos da Silva said the collected caps help raise money for children’s treatment. Teacher Cida Paixão said it also gives pupils a way to learn about consumption and reuse while taking part in a social initiative.
The NGO provides practical assistance to families as well as financial support. Ana Hadassa, who travelled from Roraima to São Paulo with her mother for leukemia treatment, received warm clothing. Another child, four-year-old Luís Fernando, who came from Tocantins, received special food and supplements.
Founder Fernanda de Lucca started the organization after one of her children had cancer. She said 7,000 children have received direct assistance or support through work at shelters and hospitals. The project also aims to offer families a sense of welcome and support, she said.
Julia’s grandmother, Zenaide Maria Milesi De Arruda, became a volunteer after her family received help. She said she is grateful for the support and continues to help other children served by the NGO.
Sources: G1.