A Good Use for Your Old Cell Phone

You may hear of a new California law, starting July 1, that allows customers to return cellphones to retailers for recycling, reuse or proper disposal. [Source: Jan 1, 2006 Los Angeles Times]. But did you know that you can currently donate used cell phones to victims of domestic violence?

Motorola, Inc., the Wireless Foundation, and the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence have a nationwide program to collect unused cell phones, repair them if necessary, and distribute them, free of charge, to thousands of victims of domestic violence across America. Any brand of cellular or PCS phone, working or non-working, is welcome. Mail phones and all accessories to: Call to Protect, 1580 E. Ellsworth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48108. Include your name, address, and phone number and you will be mailed a donation announcement within 30 days. For more information visit www.wirelessfoundation.org.

The Coalition to End Family Violence in Ventura will accept cell phones for the same purpose. Phones may be dropped off M-F from 8-5 at the office, 1030 N. Ventura Rd, Oxnard, CA 93030. 805-983-6014. They request only the cell phone and battery, no accessories (i.e. headsets, chargers, instruction books, or boxes).

It is often easier to give up our possessions if we feel they are going to a worthwhile cause. For an eclectic list of other organizations that can use your discards, visit http://organizingrx.com/donations.cfm . Pick a cause that speaks to your heart!