Around 15,000 bottles and cans are going through Yarrawonga’s FOOTT container depot daily, six days a week, with FOOTT saying that number was only growing.
FOOTT director Jenny Foott said she was thrilled to see the community embrace the opportunity to use the scheme.
“It not only diminishes recyclable waste in landfills but also holds the potential to benefit local organisations like Helping Hands, if you choose to donate your funds to them,” she said.
“You can use the CDS Victoria North app and choose to donate to your favourite charity or community group.
“Or let one of our workers know when you drop off your containers, and they’ll ensure the refund goes to your nominated group.”
Yarrawonga Health said that the funds raised through Helping Hands helped purchase medical equipment and services to the benefit of the Yarrawonga/Mulwala community.
Over several years, more than $350,000 has been donated by the community to the charity which has supported projects including new beds throughout the hospital’s residential aged care areas, equipment for its palliative care services, the True Doors project in Allawah and upgrading patient waiting areas in the acute ward.
“This is a great opportunity for people in the community to make a tangible difference to our health service” interim chief executive Robin Haberecht said.
“Helping Hands provide vital support to Yarrawonga Health. Their fundraising initiatives enable the purchase of additional equipment and furnishings to enhance care for our local community.”
The Yarrawonga CDS Victoria FOOTT depot is open Monday-Saturday, 8am-4pm, at 97 Benalla-Yarrawonga Road.