Shuler Elementary Wins Build with Bags Grants

Shuler Elementary School has new outdoor benches made out of recycled plastic bags courtesy of the Build with Bags grant program.

Shuler Elementary was selected as one of nine recipients for a $2,000 grant from the Build with Bags grant program. The school received $2,000 to purchase benches made out of recycled plastic bags by Plastic Recycling of Iowa Falls. 

“We are excited to announce the winners of this year’s Build with Bags grants,” said Michelle Hurd, President of the Iowa Grocery Industry Association. “Now in its twelfth year, the program continues to encourage individuals to recycle their plastic bags so those bags can be turned into products that beautify our communities. We are proud to reward this year’s grant winners for their recycling efforts.” 

Out of 40 applications, the top nine scored received a grant totaling $15,527 altogether. Each application was scored closely by each member of the committee. The application included a statement regarding their need for the grant and an explanation of the community’s own effort in recycling plastic bags. In addition, applicants were asked to identify the recycled plastic content in the products they were looking to purchase and present a letter of endorsement from a local grocer who is in support of the community’s project and recycling plan.

Doug Mezger, Waukee Hy-Vee store director, was a big help to Shuler Elementary. Mezger wrote a letter of support on behalf of Shuler Elementary as part of their winning application.

“At Hy-Vee, we believe in partnering with our schools whenever we can,” stated Doug Mezger. “Recycling plastic bags to create benches for our schools and community aligns perfectly with our motto of making lives easier, healthier, and happier.” 

Encouraging these purchases of furniture and equipment made out of recycled plastic for parks and schools through their grant program is one of the goals established by Build with Bags partners. Their other goals include increasing the amount of plastic bags recycled, reducing the consumption of plastic bags, and increasing the safe use of reusable bags.