Automotive Maintenance hosts new bottle drive initiative in partnership with Bethell Hospice

September 3, 2026 · 0 Comments

By KATHRYN FRASER

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A new fundraising bottle return initiative by Automotive Maintenance in partnership with Bethell Hospice is in full gear.

The initiative will collect empty bottles and return them in support of Bethell Hospice.

Those looking to donate can drop off empty liquor, wine, and beer bottles or cans to the Caledon East Bottle Return Depot located at 16040 Airport Road in Caledon East.

After dropping off the bottles, let the staff know that you would like the refund donated to Bethell Hospice Foundation and your return will be matched by Automotive Maintenance.

This is the first time that Automotive Maintenance and Bethell Hospice have worked specifically on an initiative like this; however, Automotive Maintenance has been a long-time supporter of Bethell Hospice for many years.

The inspiration behind this initiative came from Automotive Maintenance owner John Tomasone’s personal experience when his mother spent time in Bethell Hospice.

After seeing firsthand the care and compassion that Bethell Hospice provided for his mother, it left a long-lasting impression on him and underscored how important programs and services like these were to families that were going through difficult times.

“We wanted to find a meaningful way to give back and support an organization that provides the same level of care to people in our community”, says Automotive Maintenance Bottle Supervisor Alessandra Tomasone.

All proceeds raised will go towards the Bethell Hospice Foundation and will be dedicated to care and programs in the facility.

“The donations help Bethell Hospice continue providing the important services and care that patients and their families rely on. The funds can support patient care, supplies, community outreach, and other areas where they are needed most,” says Tomasone. “We are grateful that our contributions can help Bethell Hospice continue the incredible work they do for local families.”

Since the drive was launched, Tomasone and the rest of the Automotive Maintenance team have seen the impact it has had and the number of members in the community that have donated towards this cause.

“It means a great deal to us. It is incredibly rewarding to see people come together to support something that is bigger than themselves,” says Tomasone. “It really shows the strength of a community when everyone contributes in whatever way they can. Even a small donation can make a meaningful difference when we all work together.”

However, it’s not just donating that people out in the Caledon Community can do to help.

“There are many ways people can help. One simple way is by donating their empty bottles and cans through the initiative,” says Tomasone. “Every donation, no matter how small, adds up and can make a difference, John also matches the donations every month. People can also reach out directly to Bethell Hospice to learn about other ways they can volunteer, donate, or support the organization.”

Those looking for more information and updates about this initiative can follow Automotive Maintenance at @caledonbottledepot and can also visit the Bethell Hospice website at bethellhospice.org.