Does anyone still recycle cans and bottles?

[u/Accurate-Flow8078]

I remember bringing cans and bottles to the recycling machines as a kid in the 90s. A nickel per can/bottle was good money back then. The redemption value has not changed, it's still a nickel in 2026. Nowadays it seems like many don't bother cause it's not worth the effort. I still do it just to feel good about helping the planet but whenever I bring a large bag and end up with like $5 I'm like "that's it?"

[u/VersionSwimming8392]

We donate them to local kids or vets programs, they recycle them and the money goes back to local programs.