A line of drivers waited their turn to dispose of confidential documents during Mantua’s shred day last April.
Mantua Township will host the first of two free shredding events this year on Saturday, April 12, from 9 a.m. to noon at the municipal building parking lot.
Mantua and Gloucester County residents alike are invited to shred potentially compromising documents such as tax bills, bank statements and old bill.
“It’s a great opportunity to rid yourself of confidential paper documents in a safe, secure and convenient manner,” said Mayor Robert Zimmerman. “We bring a commercial grade shredding unit to our site. These are drive-up programs where you are able to witness your documents being shredded to assure complete destruction.
“Our free shredding events have been hosted by the township for several years now and are typically twice annually in both the spring and fall,” he added. “Again, our shredding events are free of charge and are at no expense to the local taxpayer. Recycling grant monies pays for this service.”
The township estimated that about 100 vehicles showed up at the recent shred event in September and roughly the same number are expected this month.
Workers will be on hand to assist residents, who will drive up and hand them their documents. Those workers will then do the secure disposals. People can also watch their documents be shredded as further proof their papers will be destroyed.
“You actually witness the documents being shredded in your presence,” Zimmerman said.
The only material the shredder can handle is paper. While paper with staples and paper clips is ok, the township asks that residents not bring plastic, plastic bags, cardboard, binder or binder clips.
The second shredding event of the year is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 13, from 9 a.m. to noon at the same location.
