SaskTel has announced it 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 being 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," says 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 Govern-ment 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.
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.Anyone wanting to donate a used wireless device can do so at any of the 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.
