Litter has no chance against Oscars Enemies

Oscar’s Enemies, a Tacoma-based litter pick-up group, has garnered impressive results in its mission to clean up the community, having collected over 45,000 pounds of trash since its launch five years ago. Each month, between 60 to 100 volunteers gather for two hours to tackle litter in various neighborhoods, equipped with supplies from the city’s Neighborhood Litter Patrol program. This initiative not only addresses environmental concerns but also fosters a strong sense of community among participants. Founder Jessica Tweed emphasizes that while people join for the litter, they often stay for the connections they build. Last month marked the group's 69th pick-up, covering a route from Pine Street to Wilkeson Street.

The effort highlights the importance of collective action in addressing local issues and enhancing community pride. Furthermore, the partnership with the city ensures that volunteers have the necessary tools to safely handle hazardous materials. Oscar’s Enemies serves as a model for how grassroots initiatives can lead to substantial change in urban environments.