SaskTel is encouraging customers to recycle their old cell phones by donating to the Phones for a Fresh Start (PFFS) program.

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 then donated to Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan’s to help people escaping domestic violence.

Minister of Social Services Gene Makowsky gives the example of youth transitioning out of Ministry of Social Services care which is a situation where a phone can be a lifeline, by giving them the means to stay in touch with vital support networks, such as community partners, former caregivers and extended family.

Jo-Anne Dusel, Executive Director at PATHS says, “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 you can drop off cell phones, batteries, and accessories at any SaskTel Store or one of over 50 participating Authorized Dealer locations across the province. Or you can also ship your device to SaskTel free of charge through Canada Post.

Since 2009 when the program began, SaskTel has recycled more than 135,000 cell phones. All proceeds from the recycling process 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.