During a trip to the recycling center, I talked with a Granny’s worker who was unloading a very large load to recycling. When I commented on the amount, I was told that what I was seeing was a constant problem, but nothing compared to the amount of trash left at the door, most commonly when the door is closed with a sign indicating that donations should only be made during operating hours. It is evident that there are people who see Granny’s contribution site as a free, more convenient dump site than going to the actual dump where they would have to pay. As a result, Granny’s loses a significant amount of time and money hauling worthless trash to the dump. When the trash is left out in the rain, it adds significantly to the weight, adding to the cost.

I tend to be a squirrel and hang on to things I don’t need any more but am reluctant to discard. It becomes easier when I can tell myself that it would work better for someone else. I contributed one very special formal dress in almost new condition that didn’t fit any more. My sadness at the “loss” was relieved when I saw that it must have sold right away, telling me that it brought happiness to someone else, and much-needed cash to our community. Granny’s has helped me to pass on things that I might otherwise cling to.

We all know Vashon is a special place where trust is essential to our way of life. Somehow, the idea of needing to mount video cameras to track and discourage fellow islanders who use Granny’s as their own private, free dump site is distasteful, but let’s face it: There are literally thousands of dollars wasted in dump fees.

— Julia Rhoads