Returned vases raise money for homeless pets
By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE — Animals at the Central Aroostook Humane Society were recently the beneficiaries of gift from a local florist, thanks to a unique recycling idea.
“We asked people to bring in their old vases. Instead of paying the people for turning them in, we made a donation to the shelter instead,” said Megan Soucier, fourth generation-in-training, at Cook’s Florist, located on Main Street in Presque Isle.
Staff photo/Kathy McCarty
DONATION BENEFITS ANIMALS — Cook’s Florist in Presque Isle turned unwanted vases into cash, through a recycling effort at the business in August. Customers returned their vases, which were then re-used, saving the expense of purchasing new ones. The money that would have been spent buying new vases was then given to the Central Aroostook Humane Society. Pictured from left are: Megan Soucier, fourth generation-in-training, Cook’s Florist; Jake, a shelter pet; and Sharon Brown, a staff member at the Presque Isle facility.
Soucier said the business usually purchases vases but opted to recycle donated ones, putting the money they saved toward a donation for homeless pets.
“We normally buy new ones and then have to pay tax and the cost of shipping. This way it’s a win all the way around. Customers got to be a part of a recycling effort that will help a lot of animals,” said Soucier.
Not only did the effort keep unwanted vases out of the landfill, the business was able to re-use them, bringing pleasure to yet more customers, with the money saved then going to a good cause.
“It’s a great way to give back. We plan to do this every August,” said Soucier, noting she and her mom know the costs involved with caring for a pet, having two Boxers of their own.
Soucier recently presented the shelter employee Sharon Brown with a check for $482 — the amount the business saved by using recycled vases rather than purchasing new ones.
Brown said every penny will be used to care for the animals.
“This will go a long way in helping the animals. We’re pretty full right now and can use any and all donations,” said Brown.
Brown said this is a business idea that makes good sense.
“This is good all the way around. Recycling vases saves the company money and helps shelter animals too,” said Brown.
