Return and Earn funds our firefighters
There are 11 billion reasons that make our container deposit scheme Return and Earn a massive success story. But this story is made up of many other success stories that, although smaller in scale, are no less powerful.
Many people who use the scheme are feeling the love and choosing to donate some of their 10c refunds to very worthy causes and charities. One of these which is of particular importance throughout the summer months is ‘Donate for a Mate’. This statewide appeal supports the wellbeing of volunteer firefighters through the RFS Benevolent Fund and has already raised over $43,000 of the $100,000 fundraising target.
The RFS Benevolent Fund is fuelled by $10 million in donations inspired by the courageous efforts during the 2019/20 Black Summer fires, representing the broader community's huge gratitude and support for our everyday heroes.
Funds from Return and Earn will allow the RFS Benevolent Fund to offer additional practical and compassionate support such as counselling, support services and welfare grants to any RFS members experiencing poverty, distress, or other difficulties. Community contributions, like those through the Return and Earn initiative, will allow the Fund to help those who need it most for years to come.
As we aim to raise $100,000 by April 2024, each recycled bottle or can donated to the RFS Benevolent Fund directly supports those who risk their lives for our communities. By selecting 'DONATE' at Return and Earn machines or using the app at machines and participating depots offering a ‘tag and drop’ service, everyone can join our collective effort to support our everyday heroes who give so much to protect us. It’s just one way we can all say thanks.
For more inspiring stories and updates, go to Return and Earn.