CLINTON COUNTY -- The Salvation Army in Clinton County is urging municipalities in the county to issue permits for charities that want to place donation drop boxes in the area.
The Salvation Army says the permits are necessary to eliminate trash that builds up around the boxes, but some of the other charities think it's a strong-arm tactic to eliminate the competition.
There are clothing donation boxes like all over Clinton County. We found one in Lock Haven that's owned by the Salvation Army.
Proceeds from donations left in that bin help the Salvation Army in Lock Haven provide daily meals for people in need.
As for some of the other bins, Beth Moore with the Salvation Army Advisory Board said, "These collection boxes are coming into our county and the usage and the stuff that is put in them is going outside of the county and they are not being used for county good."
"There are a lot of people in this area that do need those products, so if it is for this area then it would be a good idea, but if not for this area no," said Devonna Mclean of Lock Haven.
Now the Salvation Army is asking communities in Clinton County to issue permits as a way of regulating collection boxes including the ones owned by the Salvation Army.
"They absolutely have the right to keep some of those boxes in our area, but I think what we need to do is make them look a more respectful way."
Supervisors in Bald Eagle Township said they are considering the idea of a permit, but want to find a solution that's suitable for everyone involved.
We reached out to the owner of one box, Dream Keepers, a small organization from Montoursville that uses funds for mission trips.
In a text message, employee Ray McCloy said:
"Although I believe the Salvation Army is an excellent organization, I disagree strongly that they attempt to influence government. Let the community decide who they want to give to."
The Salvation Army in Lock Haven plans to add at least two more clothing donation boxes in Clinton County to go along with its drop-off locations.
It also plans to continue urging municipalities to start issuing permits for the bins.
