Empty bottles and cans really do make a difference, with the Western suburbs donating more than $41,000 to RSPCA Victoria through the Victorian Container Deposit Scheme.
Over the summer months, those in the Western suburbs recycled over 410,000 bottles and cans.
RSPCA Victoria's Events and Community Fundraising Coordinator Tess Pannell said she was thrilled with the news.
"We've been completely blown away by the support for this project and the overall outcome, especially in such a short amount of time," Ms Pannell said.
"The community in the West have really gotten involved, and it shows how much they care about animals."
Ms Pannell says while it may seem small, donating something as simple as bottles and cans clearly still goes a long way to help support the cause.
"We know times are tough right now, and the cost-of-living crisis is impacting everyone, meaning people can't donate money to charities in the way they might have done so before.
"The Container Deposit Scheme is a way for people to still be involved in supporting a cause they care about; every 10 cents donated will help us care for every animal arriving through our doors."
The amount raised is enough to ensure the first night at an RSPCA Victoria shelter will be a comfortable one.
"The $41,000 raised can provide 700 homeless animals with a warm, safe and clean bed, as well as a full belly, on their first night at one of our shelters.
"It will help support many animals in their journey to find their new home."
Anyone can donate their container refunds by selecting RSPCA Victoria as their charity via the Container Deposit Scheme app or by visiting the RSPCA Victoria website here.
