Bedbug Web site provides free services

NEW YORK, Dec. 2 (UPI) -- A bedbug warrior Web site said it is partnering with extermination companies in giving away free bug-control treatments to needy families.

BedBugCentral.com, teamed up with approximately two dozen companies to provide free services, the New York Daily News reported Thursday.

"It's to give back to the community," said Peter Scala, owner of Parkway Exterminating in Long Island.

Last year, Scala's firm cleaned a Hungarian immigrant's apartment in Manhattan, and he's offering the same services to another family this year, the Daily News said.

Bedbug extermination costs at least $600 for a moderate apartment infestation, and $3,000 to service a private house, said Jeffrey White, an entomologist with BedBugCentral.

"You see a lot of sad situations where people are trying to feed their family while dealing with a bedbug infestation," White said.

BedBugCentral is also providing Interfaith Furnishings, a New Jersey non-profit that donates used furniture to needy families, with bedbug-killing heating chambers. The charity had to stop accepting donated mattresses because of bedbug issues.

The Web site said those who wish to apply for a free bedbug treatment should send a description of why they need the services in 300 words or less by email to beddy(at)bedbugcentral.com.