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Important Update: Card Recycling Program Discontinued
For 35 years, Saint Jude's Ranch for Children sponsored a recycled card program. Unfortunately, the
program ended in December 2024 due to declining card sales, lower demand, and high management
costs. UWF is no longer collecting used cards. We'll notify you if we find an alternative organization
that accepts them.


Recycling Christmas Lights
Wondering what to do with old Christmas lights? Here are your local options:
Lowe's accepts old Christmas lights year-round at the customer service desk. While there's no official
deadline, we recommend calling ahead to confirm before making the trip.
Otsego Reuse Center accepts working lights only.


Five Tips for a Greener Holiday
Give thoughtfully – Choose long-lasting gifts or experiences that recipients will genuinely use and
appreciate.
Wrap sustainably – Select recyclable wrapping paper over shiny, plastic-coated alternatives, and reuse
materials whenever possible.
Eat locally – Choose locally produced meals and reduce waste through leftovers or composting.
Choose trees wisely – Artificial trees are sustainable if used for at least 10 years. Real trees are
excellent choices when properly composted after the holidays.
Practice gratitude – As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said of Christmas: "What better time for practicing a
revolution of gratitude through gift giving and celebrations that are light on the Earth and that respect
the many relationships by which we live?"


A little mindfulness goes a long way in making our holidays both greener and more meaningful.