Village partners with OBRC to boost workforce development through bottle bill program

The Oregon House Committee on Revenue meeting on May 1, 2025, highlighted the positive impact of the state's bottle bill funding on workforce development programs. A key focus was the alternative reduction recycling program, which operates in partnership with the Oregon Beverage Recycling Cooperative (OBRC).

During the meeting, representatives discussed how this program has successfully employed several individuals, helping them gain essential skills and confidence. One notable success story shared involved a participant, referred to as Christie, who utilized her earnings from the program to purchase a car and secure stable employment in the community. This achievement has allowed her to attain permanent housing and foster her granddaughter, showcasing the transformative effects of the program.

The discussion underscored the broader significance of the bottle bill, which supports various initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Oregonians through employment opportunities. The committee emphasized the importance of continuing to fund and support these programs to foster independence and self-sufficiency among participants.

As the meeting concluded, members acknowledged the ongoing need for such workforce development efforts, reinforcing the bottle bill's role in enhancing community well-being and economic stability.