Thank you NSW! Thanks to the generosity of NSW recyclers, a staggering $229,190 has been raised over the past six months by donating container refunds – translating to more than 458,000 vital meals provided by Foodbank for families facing hunger.
The simple act of recycling your drink containers through Return and Earn in NSW is having a profound impact on communities across the state.
In a state where sadly, one in three households experience food insecurity, the NSW community has truly stepped up. By choosing to donate their 10-cent refunds from over 2.2 million eligible containers, recyclers have provided a significant boost to Foodbank’s ability to provide essential food relief. Every five containers donated equates to one meal for someone in need.
John Robertson, CEO of Foodbank NSW & ACT, expressed his gratitude, stating, “We are thrilled to announce that our partnership with Return and Earn has raised an incredible $229,190 – equivalent to 458,380 meals for families struggling to put food on the table.” He further emphasized the impact of the community’s generosity, noting, “Every dollar raised through this initiative helps us provide essential food relief to families and individuals across NSW and ACT.”
James Dorney, CEO of TOMRA Cleanaway, Network Operator for Return and Earn said, “We’re proud of the support the NSW community has shown for Foodbank over the last 6 months. It has certainly been one of the most successful major donation partnerships we have seen since Return and Earn began in 2017.”
Mr Dorney continued, “Working with Foodbank, we have seen the impact of their programs in communities across NSW. From breakfast clubs at schools providing our kids with a healthy start to their day to soup kitchens for vulnerable members of the community, and even disaster relief, the work of Foodbank NSW and ACT is vital.”
Stephen Bali MP echoed this sentiment, highlighting the widespread impact of the initiative: “Thank you to all the generous NSW Return and Earn recyclers who have helped the fight against hunger by choosing to donate their 10c drink container refunds to Foodbank. It’s wonderful that fundraising through Return and Earn makes a very real difference to the lives of so many people who need a helping hand, while also supporting a cleaner, greener environment.”
Since its launch in 2017, Return and Earn has proven to be a powerful fundraising tool, generating over $72 million for various charities and community groups through donations and fees from hosting return points. The partnership with Foodbank is just one shining example of how this NSW Government initiative, delivered in collaboration with the NSW Environment Protection Authority, scheme coordinator Exchange for Change, and network operator TOMRA Cleanaway, is making a tangible difference to both people and the environment.
So, the next time you return your eligible drink containers, remember the significant impact your small act can have. Whether you choose to pocket the refund or donate it to a worthy cause like Foodbank, your contribution counts. To learn more about Return and Earn and how you can get involved, visit www.returnandearn.org.au.
