Foodbank: Recycling Initiative Offers Lifeline to Richmond Valley Residents Facing Hunger

Foodbank NSW & ACT has revealed a sobering statistic: 36% of people in Richmond Valley are struggling to secure enough food. In response, a partnership with Return and Earn is providing locals with a simple way to make a difference. Through this initiative, residents can turn their recyclables into meals for families in need. The six-month campaign, launched in November, aims to raise $250,000 to fund half a million meals for vulnerable individuals this summer.

The appeal has already gained strong community support, collecting over $100,000 in donations so far, bringing hope and relief to those doing it tough.

Foodbank NSW & ACT Chief Operating Offcer, Samantha Prescott says, “We’re overwhelmed by the generosity of our community and grateful for our partnership with Return and Earn. To put that fgure into perspective, $112,957 means we can provide 225,915 meals for struggling Aussie families. Imagine the impact half a million meals would have on our communities if we reached our $250,000 target.”

From now until 20 April 2025, every eligible container donated to the Foodbank NSW & ACT appeal at a Return and Earn machine or on the Return and Earn app at participating return points, will raise 10c toward the $250,000 goal.

“We’re so grateful to the [LGA] community for all their contributions to the campaign so far.

Every container you donate makes a tangible difference. And if you haven’t tried it, there’s never been a better time to turn your festive season recycling into vital food relief for Aussies doing it tough.

“At Foodbank, we see that food insecurity doesn’t discriminate, it can affect any of us at any time, and its continuing to impact people that have never been impacted before. Our crucial mission is to make food available to those who need it most, but we can’t do it without the support of our communities and partners,” Said Ms. Prescott.

For more information visit www. returnandearn.org.au