Return and Earn recycling money boosts school programs

Not-for-profit organisation Interrelate is a donation recipient for machines across NSW until May 26.

 Anne Heath, Interrelate's NSW Central and Far West manager Western NSW Region, said they had already received $1350 over three weeks, from the recycling program that earns a 10 cent refund per item.

Ms Heath said the funding would enable Interrelate to run "respectful relationship programs" in schools.

"Even the smallest contribution via the Return and Earn machines can help shape the future, with every $15 we reach being able to fund a program for one more child," she said.

"Early guidance and education in primary schools that includes the whole school community of children, teachers and parents can help people to develop healthy relationships and reduce the occurence of bullying, assaults and family violence."

She said recycling not only benefited the environment, but it raised money to encourage positive behaviour.

Ms Heath said topics covered in the programs included curbing bullying and enhancing personal development and relationships.

She said while some schools and families could afford the programs there were others who needed the funding.

A spokesman for the EPA said Interrelate, the Salvation Army and TAD (a personal technology services company for people with disabilities) were the current donation recipients across NSW.

He said they were changed every three months and organisations could reapply.

There is also a local level donation recipient that people could choose to donate to when recycling.

He said the current local recipient for both Orange Return and Earn machines was the Orange Public School P and C committee.

"Around 300 schools, charities, community and sporting groups have already featured as donation partners on reverse vending machines across NSW to raise funds for their local activities," he said.

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