Shane Toy doesn’t like litter.
And for the past 11 years, the local man has dedicated himself to cleaning up the city, one bag at a time.
Shane picks up trash every day from the city streets. He walks, sometimes for hours, cleaning as he goes. With a bag and a pick-up stick in hand, he does his part.
“I go anywhere my legs take me,” he said.
He said it keeps him busy and lets him enjoy the fresh air.
Shane is participating in the Abbotsford Communitas Supportive Care Society’s employment service program. Communitas – a non-profit, faith-based social services agency, associated with the Mennonite Central Committee – provides resources to persons living and dealing with mental, physical and/or emotional disabilities.
Jonathan Goertz, of Communitas, has worked with Shane for five years, and said he’s become well known in the community.
“A lot of business owners know him now and call him by name,’ said Goertz.
Shane also picks up bottles to make a little extra cash. His litter pick-up is strictly voluntary, although Goertz said some people show their appreciation financially.
On Wednesday, the City of Abbotsford paid tribute to Shane’s efforts. Mayor Bruce Banman officially thanked him at city hall, presenting Shane with a certificate and gifts.
“This proves one person can make a difference,” said Banman.
Also on hand for the ceremony was Abbotsford Heat president Ryan Walter, who also praised Shane and gave him Heat memorabilia as a thank you.
After the ceremony, Shane was still beaming, having been the recipient of so much attention.
“It was exciting. I’ve never had this before. It was nice.”