Cells needed

SaskTel has saved almost 50,000 cell phones from ending up in a landfill through its Phones for a Fresh Start program. Used wireless devices are collected at SaskTel Stores and participating dealers across the province and the proceeds are used to aid victims of domestic abuse. SaskTel has partnered with the Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan (PATHS) to provide cell phones and pre-paid cards to 19 women's shelters in the province.

"Women fleeing abusive situations often leave with nothing," said Don McMorris, Minister responsible for SaskTel. "Having a cell phone can mean so much. It can keep them in contact with invaluable family support or give them access to help in an emergency situation. SaskTel and the Government of Saskatchewan are proud to offer help to women in crisis when they need it most."

SaskTel has donated 235 phones to women's shelters in 2012 including 80 phones in Regina, five in Melfort, 20 in Yorkton, 30 in Moose Jaw, 10 in Estevan, 10 in Weyburn, 10 in Carlyle, 15 in Saskatoon, 10 in Meadow Lake and 15 in La Ronge.

"The Phones for a Fresh Start cell phones are a lifeline for women who are fleeing violence," said Crystal Giesbrecht, PATHS Director of Member Programs and Services. "Having a cell phone helps them to stay connected to supports, to make arrangements to secure housing, and most of all, to ensure their safety. PATHS is very grateful to have this partnership with SaskTel and to be able to provide cell phones to women who need them."

Approximately 96 per cent of material in an average mobile device is recyclable. However, only 12 per cent of used mobile devices in Canada are currently being recycled. The Phones for a Fresh Start program will accept any type of hand-held wireless device, whether it is working or not.

A recent promotion nearly tripled the average number of phones donated in a month with a record of more than 2,400 collected from May 8 to June 15. Customers were given a $50 wireless bill credit if they donated a used wireless device and purchased an eligible device on a three year voice and data contract. SaskTel hopes to reach 50,000 wireless devices collected before year end.

Anyone wanting to donate a used wireless device can do so at any of our 11 SaskTel Stores or participating dealers. You may also send your phone/device by Priority Post Courier. Simply take your phone to a Canada Post outlet and the Post Master will ship it to SaskTel at no charge.