One Man's Garbage Is Another Man's Income

New York City is a place where you can witness so many interesting people doing what makes them interesting.  One of my apartment windows faces the street so I get a front row seat to all of the action.  Every Sunday afternoon the buildings put out garbage, recycling, and once a week, bulk items.  On a regular basis we have a crew of guys that pull up with a van and sift through all of the recycling for any cans or bottles.  Quite often they sit in front of the buildings service entrance for an hour waiting for the goods.  It reminds me of my days waiting in line for concert tickets to go on sale, minus the income potential.  

When the recycling comes out they put gloves on and get to work.  It's pretty cool to watch the system they have in place, very organized.  On the other side of the street we have a woman that waits quietly, reading a book until the recycling is brought out.  Once it arrives, the book is put away and she springs into action.  

Scrap metal is a big income producer for many as well.  We have a gentleman that drives around and picks up anything from bed frames to frying pans.  Furniture doesn't last more then a few hours on the street either.  The porter for my building called a friend of his who quickly arrived in a van ready to take away a couch, desk, and pair of lamps.  I'm not sure if he sells the furniture or plans to use it in his home.  Either way, I have a lot of respect for these people as they have created a way to provide for themselves and their families.  Of course, this is all first come first serve but it's almost like they have claimed a territory and others respect that.  

So next time you put something on the curb that may produce income, consider the above and maybe your trash will put money in the pocket of someone that really needs it.  Have a great day!