Generous donation supports '10 Cent Tom's' recycling dream

The Gold Coast's '10 Cent Tom,' is one step closer to his dream of establishing a new recycling depot to employ people with disabilities.

The 19 year-old has become known in the Gold Coast community for his efforts collecting bottles, containers and cans from homes and businesses, and exchanging them for cash using the Containers For Change program.

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What started as a hobby and goal to reduce waste in his neighbourhood soon became a philanthropic vision for the teen and self professed 'eco-preneur,' who plans to use money collected to support the disabled community.

Tom was diagnosed with severe scoliosis when he was 15 and is living with an intellectual impairment.

He said he plans to raise enough money to fund a new depot that will aid people with disability who face barriers to employment.

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Tom said the eco-initiative works through collaboration with homes, businesses and events, encouraging them to get involved.

To support the venture, businesses can request a '10 Cent Tom,' container collection bin, which will be collected free of charge and exchanged for cash, used to support the initiatives goals.

"If you've got any bottles or cans feel free to reach out and nothing is too big nothing is too small," he said.

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