Gihabitat wins the Novelis Can grant competition for collecting over 18,000 pounds of aluminium cans

The Grand Island Area Habitat for Humanity (Gihabitat) won their second straight 'Novelis Can grant’ for collecting over 18,000 pounds of aluminium cans across 14 locations in the Hall, Howard, Hamilton, and Merrick counties. There were two rounds of competition from May through July and August through November.

"We know inflation has been really rough on a lot of our supporters. Being able to donate your aluminum cans helps not only recycling, which is great for the environment. It helps build the affordable homes here in Grand Island," said Alyssa Heagy, Executive Director at Grand Island Area Habitat of Humanity.

According to Heagy, 34 aluminium cans recycled are equal to one, which in turn amounts to 68 cents per pound in terms of money. This helps contributors to contribute to constructing affordable homes in Grand Island without spending their own money.

"Winning this competition is a testament to the dedication of our volunteers and the generosity of our supporters," Heagy adds. "We are honored to be recognized for our efforts and will continue to work hard to serve our community."

The Habitat for Humanity only looked for aluminium cans from pop and beer consumers. According to Heagy, the initiative benefits from the productive collaboration between Kramer's Auto Parts and Iron Co. Volunteers take the donated cans to Kramer's and go through the products and remove any trash.

"We're taking on urban areas, we're taking on small rural areas, and we're showing that when a community get together and if it's just one can, it really adds up to make a lasting impact," added Heagy.

She claimed it demonstrated the Grand Island neighbourhood's dedication to the area's housing needs. Grand Island defeated a habitat for humanity team from Canada to win the competition's top prize the previous year. The non-profit organization ensures that all the money is allocated correctly.

“It’ll go directly into house production. We currently are building our 113th house, through our partnership with the career pathways institute and GIPS. The junior high school students are building a house for us, and we’re able to use this money to buy the materials,” said Heagy.