The 8-year-old making a difference one bottle at a time

At just eight years old, Owen is proving that small actions can create a huge impact. Armed with his trusty buggy, Owen zips around his neighbourhood collecting bottles and cans for a cause close to his heart. Every cent he earns from recycling at his local Return and Earn machine is donated to Foodbank NSW & ACT, helping provide meals for those in need.

His journey started after his mum heard about Foodbank’s School Breakfast for Health program and how kids were going to school hungry. This led Owen to think: How can I help? Inspired by the power of recycling and the difference it could make, Owen began his mission to turn discarded drink containers into meals for people doing it tough. Over the months, what started as a small act of kindness has become a routine that showcases the power of giving back.

Return and Earn makes recycling easy and rewarding, and their partnership with Foodbank NSW & ACT has amplified its impact. With every container recycled and donated, funds go directly toward providing meals for struggling families. To date, this initiative has raised an incredible $200,000, equivalent to 400,000 meals, proving that small actions can lead to big change.

Owen’s story proves that one person’s effort really can make a difference. Whether you’re a seasoned recycler or just getting started, you can join the movement this April!

Locate your nearest Return and Earn kiosk, deposit eligible containers and choose to donate your earnings to Foodbank NSW & ACT—it’s that simple.

Get involved today.

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