Return and Earn gets behind guide dogs

Coasties are doing their bit to help fund a wide range of services provided by Guide Dogs NSW/ACT through the Return and Earn campaign.

Since April, more than $100,000 has been raised for Guide Dogs, with Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch saying the milestone is a testament to the community’s dedication to recycling for a worthy cause.

“It’s absolutely fantastic that so many people on the Central Coast have given so generously through our Return and Earn machines to help support guide dogs,” Crouch said.

“This charity gives so many people so much freedom, by training up these incredible guide dogs.”

Community Engagement Manager at Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, Jaynie Moloney, said the money raised extended to further assistance that the organisation could provide.

“Our services go well beyond training and placing guide dogs,” she said.

“We have Orientation and Mobility Specialists working directly in communities, helping people with low vision or blindness safely navigate their surroundings.”

Donations also help fund assistive technology, community inclusion programs, and accessibility advocacy, ensuring environments are inclusive and supportive for all.

“Of course, it costs around $50,000 to raise and train one of our amazing guide dogs,” Moloney said.

Return and Earn kiosks are located across the Central Coast, with donations to Guide Dogs NSW/ACT being accepted until October.

Find your nearest kiosk at returnandearn.org.au/map