UPDATE: New York State Senator Joseph Griffo has officially launched the 2023 Cell Phones For Soldiers collection drive, kicking off on November 10 and running until December 10. This initiative aims to support deployed servicemen and women by providing them with essential communication services.
The launch event took place at the Central New York Veterans Outreach Center, where Griffo was joined by key figures including Vincent Scalise, executive director, and Scott Zoeckler, director of Housing for the Veterans Outreach Center. The drive is especially significant as it coincides with Military Family Appreciation Month and Veterans Day, reinforcing the community’s commitment to supporting those who serve.
Residents are encouraged to donate gently-used and unwanted cell phones and tablets. Drop-off locations include public libraries and local businesses across Griffo’s district, such as:
– Oneida Public Library: 459 Main St., Oneida
– Sullivan Free Library: 101 Falls Blvd., Chittenango
– Jervis Public Library: 613 N. Washington St., Rome
– Central New York Veterans Outreach Center: 726 Washington St., Utica
For every device valued at $5, Cell Phones For Soldiers can provide 2.5 hours of free talk time to troops overseas, significantly impacting their ability to connect with loved ones. The organization aims to use all proceeds from recycled devices to purchase long-distance calling cards and communication services for military personnel both at home and abroad.
Griffo emphasized the emotional importance of these connections, stating, “The simple sound of a loved one’s voice can go a long way to lift their spirits.” This year marks the 10th anniversary of the drive, with the community having donated approximately 7,400 devices, translating to around 740,000 minutes of free calls for troops.
The initiative also addresses environmental concerns, as donated devices are recycled in a manner that reduces electronic waste. Cell Phones For Soldiers collaborates with a recycling partner to ensure that components are reused, reducing the need for harmful mining practices.
As the holiday season approaches, families of servicemen and women face unique challenges. Scalise noted, “The holiday season can be a difficult and trying time for many families, especially for those with a loved one serving in the armed forces.”
The charity, founded in 2004 by teenagers Robbie and Brittany Bergquist, has provided over 300 million minutes of free call time through its “Minutes That Matter” program. The organization distributes approximately 1,500 calling cards weekly to bases worldwide, care package programs, and veterans’ hospitals.
Community members are urged to take this opportunity to contribute. Donating a mobile device not only helps connect active military and veterans with their families but also promotes environmental sustainability by preventing harmful electronic waste.
For more details on how to donate and prepare your device, please visit www.cellphonesforsoldiers.com. Instructions include removing your SIM card and restoring factory settings to protect your privacy.
This drive is a call to action for all community members to support our troops during the holiday season and beyond.
