Frequently Asked Questions
When do you meet?
We meet once a month,
typically on the second Saturday, but this is subject to change based on weather.
​
Please check out the "Join" tab of our website for the most up-to-date details on new events!
​
You can also follow us on Instagram and FaceBook, as well as sign-up for our email newsletter by sending an email to
Where do you meet?
We typically meet within Syracuse city limits. The location and time of each event is announced via our email newsletter and social media, in addition to the "join" section of this website.
​
The location changes each time. Locations are selected by the organizer based on a variety of factors, including socialization venue (casual, counter-service, etc.), pedestrian safety, and presence of litter. When its too snowy or icy, we pivot to an alternative service activity.
​
Our past cleanups have been in Franklin Square, Inner Harbor, Lower East Side, and Downtown Syracuse.
How do you dispose of the trash?
DeTrash Syracuse is a registered volunteer group with the Adopt-A-Block program through the Mayor's Office. ​Per the program's guidelines, we collect trash and leave in on a visible street corner. The organizer later reports the trash for pickup via the SyrCityline online app.
​
Recycling and bottle/can redemption is completed individually by the organizer at her residence and Wegman's, respectively.
​
Needles are disposed of according to guidance from the Onondaga Health Dept: sealed in any hard plastic container, labeled sharps, and can be thrown in with regular trash.
What supplies do you provide?
Disposable nitrile gloves, 36-inch trash grabbers (brand: Harbor Freight), and trash bags are provided.
​
If you are looking to make an in-kind donation, we will gladly accept any of the above. You can bring them to an event, or email detrashsyracuse@gmail.com to set up a time and place for pickup.
​
​
Who is your organizer?
Hello! My name is Erika, and I am a Syracuse resident. I am not affiliated with any CNY-based employer or organization. I am simply a resident looking to make a difference in my backyard.​
​
I started picking up trash by myself in early 2025. I felt increasingly hopeless and helpless at the state of the world. A couple of friends joined me, and we had a lot of fun going on walks, catching up, and picking up trash. ​With their encouragement, I decided to try and turn DeTrash Syracuse into something bigger. Here we are!
​​​
Outside of DeTrash Syracuse, I work full-time as a social worker. I also have two cats that I love dearly.
​
I use emojis over faces for internet safety.