Since 2004, our network of over 1,500 law enforcement and victim services agencies has enabled us to distribute over 250,000 emergency cell phones to vulnerable citizens in communities nationwide. All devices are provided at no cost to our partner agencies. Please reach out if you would like to become an agency partner.
I wish you could see the look of relief on these victims faces when we say, it’s okay if your phone’s been busted by the perp, we’re giving you one with minutes.
A client who was residing with her abuser was able to work with her victim advocate to create a safety plan including hiding spots for a private phone. She used it exclusively for connecting with advocates and applying for jobs without her abuser knowing. Eventually, she was able to safely leave and relocate to a new town.
Thank you so much for the shipment of phones. Just wanted to share that I provided one of the phones to a shelter client. It is a case involving elder abuse. The phone is used for going through the process to receive benefits, scheduling her doctor visits, and assisting her with getting into a nursing facility. Our agency truly appreciates it!
I am providing a phone today to a man who was robbed of his personal items, wallet, and phone as he walked home from work. He will need this phone to replace his documents, freeze his accounts and work with his bank. He will also need this phone to work to protect his credit and make follow up medical appointments. He was badly beaten and will require some facial surgery. Sadly, some pretty ugly things can happen to good people. Thank you for providing these free phones so people can take steps to help themselves.
What are some other ways that donated devices are upcycled for agency partners?
- A device was requested to assist a Florida police department that needed a replacement screen for a phone that a suspect intentionally damaged before being arrested.
- Video games, iPads, and iPods have been provided to shelters for children of abuse victims to play with while the parent gets help.
- We have provided women’s health organizations with cell phones to distribute to patients for upcoming doctor appointments.
- Many educational institutions have advanced mobile app development and programming classes as part of their curriculum. Testing these apps on a personal phone can present difficulties for students, teachers, and schools. Many teachers have taken advantage of our program to receive Android devices that can be used as test phones for student apps. Devices are then sent back to the 911 Cell Phone Bank for mindful recycling.
Does your agency have a particular need? Contact us to see if we can help.
