The Rural Preservation Association of Northwestern Lehigh County is in its 22nd year, said Teena Bailey who chairs the annual Clean Sweep community cleanup.

The four township event was begun by Heidelberg Township Supervisor Dave Fink who participated in the statewide Pennsylvania Cleanways, she said.

The RPA performed roadside cleanups and, in the second year, took over the Clean Sweep program, which is held at the Lowhill Township Municipal Building along Route 100.

“Donations are requested from those residents who bring in various items because we have to pay to dispose of the material,” Bailey said. “We’ve added other things over the years and hope we have a place for everything people need a home for.

There are no chemicals accepted and paint can be recycled at Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore in Whitehall.

The remaining profit, after disposal costs are paid, goes to an agricultural or environmental scholarship for a Northwestern Lehigh graduating senior.

Bailey said last year there was enough money for two scholarships.