Tri County Community Action announces 13th annual Great Harrisburg Litter Cleanup event

During the Harrisburg City Council's legislative session on April 8, 2025, community engagement and environmental initiatives took center stage, highlighting the city's ongoing efforts to address local challenges and foster collaboration among residents and organizations.

The meeting commenced with a moment of silence led by Councilman Jones, acknowledging the struggles faced by families in Harrisburg, particularly the Hunter family. This gesture set a reflective tone for the discussions that followed, emphasizing the council's commitment to community well-being.

A significant portion of the session was dedicated to a presentation by Liz Evans Scalfaro, the revitalization coordinator for Tri County Community Action. She discussed the upcoming thirteenth annual Great Harrisburg Glitter Cleanup, an event aimed at beautifying the city's neighborhoods, particularly in Allison Hill, Midtown, and Uptown. Scheduled around Earth Day, this initiative has grown to attract hundreds of volunteers each year, with last year's event seeing 425 participants who collectively removed approximately five tons of litter and 600 tires from the environment.

Scalfaro highlighted the collaborative nature of the cleanup, which involves partnerships with local government, schools, and businesses. This year, Harrisburg's Sustainability Coordinator, Madeleine Good, is facilitating the donation of healthy snacks for volunteers, further enhancing community involvement. The event not only aims to clean up the city but also seeks to instill a sense of pride and responsibility among residents, particularly youth, regarding their local environment.

The council's discussions also included a call for public comments, inviting residents to share their thoughts and concerns. This open forum reflects the council's commitment to transparency and community engagement, allowing citizens to voice their opinions and contribute to local governance.

In conclusion, the April 8 meeting underscored the Harrisburg City Council's focus on community resilience and environmental stewardship. The Great Harrisburg Glitter Cleanup exemplifies how collective efforts can lead to meaningful change, fostering a cleaner and more vibrant city. As the council continues to engage with residents, the anticipation for the upcoming cleanup event highlights the importance of community collaboration in addressing local challenges.