Frank Parlato the developer who would rather plant trees than build houses -- wants to enlist the aid of welfare recipients to get the word out about his save-the-trees "hot line."
"I plan to be at the corner of Jefferson Avenue and Best Street at noon, Saturday to distribute handbills about the "540-TREE number," Parlato said.
"I know people on welfare cannot contribute money, but they might want to dedicate some time to what I believe is a noble cause. Anyone . . . may pick up fliers to distribute throughout their neighborhood," he said.
Last month Parlato launched 540-TREE, a call-in system similar to the more familiar "900" numbers. Callers get a recorded message that tells them they have 20 seconds to hang up at no charge. If they stay on, $ 10 will be added to their next phone bill. By staying on longer the donation can be raised.