SaskTel is asking its customers to contribute to the Phones for a Fresh Start (PFFS) program, facilitating a meaningful impact on those affected by domestic violence and young individuals transitioning out of Ministry of Social Services care.
Through the program, SaskTel collects and recycles old cell phones and cell phone accessories and uses the proceeds generated by the recycling process to purchase new cell phones and prepaid phone cards.
The new cell phones and prepaid phone cards are donated to the Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan’s (PATHS) 24 member agencies to help people escape domestic violence. SaskTel also donates cell phones and prepaid phone cards to the Ministry of Social Services to support youth as they set out on the path to independence.
Charlene Gavel, SaskTel President and CEO said the holidays are supposed to be a time of joy and laughter, but for some, they are filled with unimaginable stress and uncertainty.
“As the holidays quickly approach, we ask our customers to donate their old cell phones to Phones for a Fresh Start and help make a difference in the lives of families struggling with domestic violence and young people who need a helping hand as they transition out of ministry care and into adulthood.”
Jo-Anne Dusel, Executive Director at PATHS, said they are grateful for the program that allows PATHS member agencies to distribute new phones to individuals who have experienced violence and abuse,
“These phones are a key tool for keeping in touch with family and friends, looking for housing or employment, and calling for help in an emergency. Everyone deserves a life free from violence and abuse. By supporting this program, you are helping provide a crucial support for survivors of intimate partner and family violence.”
To donate, cell phones, batteries, and accessories can be dropped off at any SaskTel Store or one of over 50 participating Authorized Dealer locations across the province.
You can also ship your device to SaskTel for free through Canada Post.
Since 2009, PFFS began, SaskTel has recycled more than 135,000 cell phones. All recycling proceeds have been used to purchase and donate $127,000 in prepaid phone cards and over 5,000 cell phones to people in communities across Saskatchewan.
