GENEROUS recyclers have covered the cost of breeding, raising and training three new guide dogs thanks to a Return and Earn campaign with Guide Dogs NSW/ACT.

More than $175,000 has been raised for Guide Dogs during the six-month recycling appeal that ran at Return and Earn machines and depots across New South Wales.

The funds raised will help provide life-changing support for people living with low vision or blindness. Breeding, raising and training one dog can cost more than $50,000.

Every 10-cents container refund donated to Guide Dogs is making a difference for the charity, which has been operating for over 65 years. Currently, there are more than half a million people living with low vision or blindness in Australia, and this number is only set to increase.

Return and Earn has become a key fundraising channel for many charities and community groups in NSW.

More than $175,000 has been raised for Guide Dogs during the six-month recycling appeal that ran at Return and Earn machines and depots across New South Wales.

More than  $82 million has been raised from donations and fees from hosting return points since the scheme launched in 2017.

Return and Earn is a NSW Government initiative delivered in partnership between the NSW Environment Protection Authority, scheme coordinator Exchange for Change and network operator TOMRA Cleanaway.

Guide Dogs NSW/ACT CEO, Dale Cleaver, said the amount raised is staggering.

“We’ve been absolutely blown away by the generosity of recyclers across New South Wales and to see more than $175,000 raised through container refunds is truly inspiring,” Mr Cleaver said.

“This partnership has shown the incredible impact our community can have when we come together.

“These funds will help us provide three expertly trained Guide Dogs, giving people with low vision or blindness greater confidence and independence.

“It’s proof that small acts can add up to life-changing outcomes.”

Exchange for Change CEO Danielle Smalley, said it is heartwarming the recycling community contributed so enthusiastically and generously to an important fundraising partnership.

“Each guide dog takes over two years to breed, raise and train, so these donations will make a very real difference to a wonderful cause,” Ms Smalley said.

“Recycling drink containers makes a big impact in so many ways – by keeping the environment clean, keeping containers in circulation and giving a helping hand to great causes like Guide Dogs.”

TOMRA Cleanaway CEO James Dorney, said the New South Wales community’s support of Guide Dogs has been tremendous, with more than 1.75 million drink containers donated through the Return and Earn network.

“Throughout this campaign we’ve had the privilege of seeing Guide Dogs in action and the impact that Guide Dogs has helping people with low vision or blindness to live the life they choose,” he said.