HISTORY

SWC WAS FOUNDED IN 2007 TO PROVIDE CANNERS -PEOPLE WHO COLLECT CANS AND BOTTLES FROM THE STREETS- A WELCOMING PLACE TO REDEEM AND CONNECT WITH OTHERS ENGAGED IN THE SAME ENDEAVOR. SWC IS THE ONLY NON-PROFIT HOMELESS-FRIENDLY REDEMPTION CENTER IN NYC.

Many canners face economic, emotional, educational and language barriers that limit their possibilities for full participation in society. SWC was founded by canners for canners. A group led by Ana de Luco and Eugene Gadsden, started SWC to improve their working and living conditions, and address the hardships of those who make a living by collecting and redeeming discarded cans and bottles.

SWC has grown each year, and in 2015 processed approximately 10 million cans and bottles for redemption. Today, SWC’s more than 400 canners have a place to store, organize, and exchange what they have collected. In addition, through educational activities and programs for schools and universities, SWC is promoting sustainability, recycling and composting.