Eye-catching pink recycle carts in Canby will help boost breast cancer awareness
A splash of pink is set to brighten neighborhoods in Canby as local nonprofit Pink Sistas unveils its new initiative: Pink Recycle Carts designed to raise awareness for breast health and fund the organization’s programs.
Deb Hart, founder of Pink Sistas, shared that this program offers residents the chance to swap their standard brown recycle cart for a vibrant pink version for a $50 tax-deductible donation. “Who would want an ugly brown garbage can when you can have a pink one?” Hart said, highlighting the project’s mix of practicality and visibility.
Deb Hart, survivor founder
Deb Hart is the founder of Pink Sistas. She is more than a breast cancer survivor—she’s an inspirational speaker, mentor, fierce advocate, and trusted confidant to countless women on their journey through breast cancer. As the heart behind Pink Sistas, Deb ensures the organization remains 100% volunteer-run, with no paid positions and no government funding, so every ounce of support goes directly to the women they serve.
What is ‘Pink Sistas’?
Pink Sistas was born from the heart of Deb Hart—a breast cancer survivor who transformed her personal journey of grief and resilience into a mission of healing, hope, and sisterhood. Since 2012, Deb has devoted herself to supporting women diagnosed with breast cancer across the Portland metro area, and now reaches communities throughout Oregon and Washington. Pink Sistas is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.
Pink recycle carts in Canby
About the new pink recycle carts starting in Canby, Hart said, “It’s a big deal for us. Not only will this boost our income, but it also makes breast health awareness visible in the community,” The timing coincides with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, October, underlining the initiative’s mission to spark conversations in everyday settings.
The city council recently approved this program after a year-long effort by Hart and her team to navigate the necessary logistics and regulations. Waste Connection, the local waste-hauling service, will handle distribution and routine trash collection, ensuring residents’ service continues uninterrupted. The campaign is designed with compliance in mind. Hart worked closely with financial advisors to ensure that donations are properly managed. Canby residents simply scan the QR code, donate $50, and have their new 95 gallon Pink Recycle Cart featuring the Pink Sisters logo delivered by Waste Connection/Canby Disposal Company on their regular service day. Hart emphasized that all proceeds from the $50 donation go directly to Pink Sistas.
Hopes to expand
The Pink Recycle Carts are just the beginning. Hart hopes to expand the initiative to other Oregon cities, including Milwaukie, Gresham, Sandy, Clackamas, and Happy Valley. “Once one community embraces it, others will follow,” she said, noting that the pilot program in Canby will serve as a model for future rollouts.
Hart’s creativity and determination have been key to navigating the complex logistics of the garbage service industry, where territory and service providers vary widely. Her hands-on approach includes marketing at local farmers markets, civic clubs, and community events to ensure broad participation.
Bold statement
Beyond fundraising, the pink bins serve as a bold statement of solidarity. “It’s not just a garbage can — it’s a conversation starter,” Hart said. For residents, seeing the pink bins in their neighborhoods offers a daily reminder of the importance of breast health and the support available through Pink Sistas’ programs, including retreats and educational outreach.
In November, Pink Sistas will celebrate the official rollout of the pink garbage cans. As Hart said, “We’re turning something ordinary into something meaningful — and in the process, spreading awareness, hope, and a little bit of pink throughout Canby.” HVN
For more information, visit the Pink Sistas website: www.pinksistas.org