Illinois Awards More than $100k in Grant Money to Two Companies

These recycling grants are administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and come as a part of Opportunity Returns, a program designed to create jobs and spur growth across the region.

"By encouraging more recycling, communities across the region are improving both our environment and our economy. These grants will go a long way in expanding the recycling industry in LaSalle and Lee counties, so it is even easier for more people to become a part of this important process. By supporting these kinds of innovative programs that are recycling everything from cans to computers, we are lessening the demand on our landfills and creating more jobs for our working families," Gov. Blagojevich said.

Kreider Services is receiving a $29,000 recycling grant to expand its existing recycling efforts. The company will add up to ten new accounts and seek additional volumes of plastic from existing customers. The company will provide employment for up to ten individuals with developmental disabilities. The project also expects to divert an additional 109 tons of recyclables a year.

LaSalle Recycling Inc. dba GW Recycling, is receiving two recycling grants totaling $97,681 for the expansion of existing collection and processing efforts. A $60,000 grant will be used to purchase a recycling collection vehicle, which will expand existing residential and commercial recycling collections. Grant funds will help with promotional and educational efforts, as well as the development of a recycling drop-off site at the processing facility.

LaSalle’s second recycling grant, for $37,681, will be used to expand the company’s processing capabilities through the purchase of a baler. These projects are expected to divert an additional 1,000 tons of recyclable commodities from being landfilled a year.