I don’t know about you, but sometimes it just feels nice to be a good human.
Not everyday… because that’s just madness. But every now and again, I think it’s important to take a step back and realise how lucky we all are.
(Photo quote: “We only live once”, “Wrong! We only die once, we live everyday”)
I’ve recently contributed towards two different campaigns, both of which pay benefit to my local community.
This is not one of those “ooo look at me” posts.
I just wanted to share my experience, and if that encourages any of you to also get involved – then great!
Awareness is key, and helping those in need is something I definitely do care about.
“Tonne of Tins” Appeal
More than ever before, Cornish folk are relying on the support of foodbanks. With this in mind, Pirate FM recently launched their “Tonne of Tins” appeal, asking local people to donate as many cans of tinned food as possible.
(Photo description: “Cornwall we need you” poster)
The appeal has already exceeded all expectations – currently sitting at a whopping 10 tonnes!
Not one to shy away from a #PastyProblem, I took a trip down to the studios to deliver my cans and see the appeal in action. Unfortunately the main reception wasn’t accessible, but I still managed to make my donation, and the staff were incredibly friendly and grateful.
(Photo description: Ross making his donation outside the Pirate FM studio)
My mum often donates to the foodbank collection in our local supermarket. The success of this appeal has really inspired me, and I shall definitely consider donating an extra tin here or there, when doing my food shops in the future.
Check out Pirate FM’s website for more information, and to find your nearest drop-off point.
Crisp Packet Recycling Scheme
Whilst on the topic of being nice, generous humans (LOL) – my sister recently introduced me to the Refill Store, in Lemon Street Market, Truro.
(Photo description: Ross heading into Lemon Street Market)
I’m not going to lie and say I’m fully committed to a plastic-free lifestyle, but I am coming round to the idea more than I used to.
The Refill Store are currently working alongside a company called Terracycle, to reduce the amount of crisp packets that end up in landfill sites across the UK.
(Photo description: “Say no to single use plastics” sign)
So at no extra cost to yourselves, instead of throwing your empty crisp packets in the bin – chuck them at me instead! I have been collecting packets from various friends and family over the past few weeks, and recently dropped a load off to the store.
The weight of crisp packets collected get turned into points. These points are then converted to pounds – leading to a donation to their chosen charity – Surfers Against Sewage. Pretty cool stuff, huh!
(Photo description: Ross putting a large pile of crisp packets into the collection box)
Little life changes like this can have a huge impact on our environment. The single use plastic debate is an ongoing issue which needs addressing.
Although I agree with certain aspects of the campaign, I’m not going to sit here and be a hypocrite, as I do rely heavily on particular packaging/preparation, as a disabled young man with muscle weakness.
I am however the proud owner of some pretty bad-ass metal straws! It also gets my sister off my back for a little bit too, so lets keep this movement going!
For more information on the crisp packet recycling scheme, check out The Refill Store’s Instagram page.