Artvin garbage truck driver uses toys to engage local children

Rıfat Başar, a 40-year-old sanitation worker for the Kemalpaşa Municipality in Artvin, has transformed how local children perceive his garbage truck. After noticing children avoiding the vehicle due to its odor and appearance, Başar began a routine of rigorous cleaning and maintenance to eliminate smells.

To further engage the community, Başar decorated his truck with plush toys and began using a portion of his own salary to purchase small toys for children. He now distributes approximately 50 to 60 toys daily along his route. This initiative has changed the local atmosphere, with children now eagerly awaiting the truck and greeting him by name.