Hearts of Purple has transformed 10-cent containers into a block of land and portable homes, celebrating the installation of new crisis accommodation partly funded through Containers for Change.
Since launching their Purple Bins program in March 2020, the not-for-profit organisation and its supporters have recycled more than 5.1 million containers, raising more than $500,000 in 10-cent refunds.
Nearly $100,000 of that total was generated in the past year alone, driven by the ongoing support of more than 500 local businesses.
In 2022, Hearts of Purple used container refunds to purchase a block of land, with the vision of creating safe, dedicated accommodation for people escaping domestic violence.
That vision has now been become a reality, with the newly established site providing critical crisis accommodation for individuals and families leaving dangerous situations.
Trevor Evans, Interim CEO of Container Exchange, the not-for-profit that runs Containers for Change, said the housing project reflects the collective impact of Queenslanders recycling their containers for a good cause.
“Through the Purple Bins program, Queenslanders are not only helping the environment, but they’re also directly supporting safer futures for people in need,” Mr Evans said.
“We are deeply proud to be a small part of this story, and we congratulate Michelle and the entire Hearts of Purple team on this inspiring achievement.”
Michelle Beattie, CEO of Hearts of Purple, said the milestone shows that the small action of recycling a container can add up quickly to create profound change.
“The completion of our housing project marks a significant and deeply meaningful moment for Hearts of Purple and the people we support,” Ms Beattie said.
“These homes represent safety, dignity and a fresh start. We are incredibly grateful to every individual, business and partner who has contributed their containers to help make this vision a reality.”
Supporting the Purple Bins program on the ground, local operator Express Recycling has played a key role in processing the donated containers and helping ensure funds are returned efficiently to support Hearts of Purple’s work.
Nikki Mullen, Manager at Express Recycling, said it’s been a privilege to see Hearts of Purple bring the housing project to life.
“We are proud to support Hearts of Purple and see firsthand the impact that container donations can make. Every bottle and can returned through our depot is helping fund something truly meaningful in the community.”
Hearts of Purple was previously recognised at the 2023 Containers for Change ‘Change Maker Awards’, taking out Community Group of the Year as well as the prestigious Changemaker of the Year title.
Queenslanders can donate their container refunds directly to Hearts of Purple by using the member number C10161243 at more than 400 Containers for Change refund points across the state.
Media Contact:
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e | media@containerexchange.com.au
