Union County Launches County-Wide Sustainable Textile Recycling Program

UNION COUNTY, NJ — The Union County Board of County Commissioners is excited to announce a new partnership with Helpsy, a leading sustainable clothing and textile recycling company, to launch a County-wide used clothing and accessory recycling program.

This initiative, set to launch in the City of Plainfield, the Township of Scotch Plains, and the City of Summit, aims to reduce waste, support environmental sustainability, and provide residents with an easy and accessible way to recycle unwanted clothing and accessories.

"As part of my 2025 Chairwoman’s initiatives, Union County 2025: Connecting Communities, Committed to Progress, we are proud to prioritize environmental sustainability through innovative programs like this new partnership with Helpsy," said Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes Leon. "This initiative provides our residents with a simple and convenient way to recycle unwanted clothing and textiles, reducing waste and contributing to a healthier planet. Union County has long been a leader in environmental stewardship, and this year, we are doubling down on our commitment to creating a greener future for our communities."

Helpsy will supply designated drop-off bins for used clothing, shoes, accessories, and household linens — regardless of condition — as long as these items are dry and odor-free, helping to divert them from local landfills. The collected items will be repurposed for resale, reuse, and recycling.

Residents can drop off their items for free at the following locations:

Plainfield

• Plainfield - Transfer Station at 95 Rock Avenue
  • 908-226-2518
  • Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. (drop-off until 2:45 pm)
• Scotch Plains - DPW Yard at 2445 Plainfield Avenue
  • 908-233-6707
  • Thursdays from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Summit - Summit Transfer Station at 40 New Providence Avenue
  • 908-273-6404
  • Tuesday - Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
  • Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Helpsy, a certified B-Corp and Public Benefit Corporation, is a recognized leader in sustainable clothing recycling. Their mission is to keep textiles out of landfills while promoting environmentally friendly practices. Helpsy kept over 31 million pounds of clothing, shoes, and other items from entering the waste stream, which is equivalent to 100 items of clothing every minute.

The launch of this program is part of Union County’s continuous efforts to promote sustainability, reduce waste, and encourage responsible consumption. Union County encourages all residents to take advantage of this opportunity to declutter and recycle their unwanted textiles in a responsible and eco-friendly manner.

For more information on the program and a list of drop-off locations, visit ucnj.org/recycling. For more information on Helpsy, visit helpsy.com.

This press release was produced by the Union County Office of Public Information and Communications. The views expressed here are the author’s own.