Mount Washington's Trash Transformed by Adopt-A-Block

The Mount Washington neighborhood in Pittsburgh is experiencing a significant cleanup initiative spearheaded by Helen Oldfield's Adopt-A-Block program. Oldfield, who moved to the city from the West Coast, was initially shocked by the amount of litter. She began organizing large cleanups, which evolved into her current program.

Now with over 60 volunteers, the Adopt-A-Block program targets streets like Grandview Avenue and Duquesne, addressing the trash accumulation. Oldfield attributes much of the mess to young people gathering in the evenings, leaving behind fast food wrappers and other debris. Volunteers, including long-time residents Barbara and Paul Franklin, actively participate, using grabbers and trash bags to clear cigarette butts and cans.

The program aims to foster a sense of pride and encourage responsible behavior. Volunteers find the work rewarding, noting that it has made them more aware of litter everywhere. Oldfield is seeking community organization support and grant money, such as the Neighborhood Economic Development grant, to procure necessary supplies like vests and grabbers and to ensure the program's continuation.