UPDATE: New York State Senator Joseph Griffo has just launched the annual Cell Phones for Soldiers collection drive in collaboration with the Central New York Veterans Outreach Center. The initiative commenced on November 10, 2023, and will run until December 10, 2023, providing a crucial opportunity for the community to support deployed military personnel.
This year’s drive aims to collect gently-used and unwanted mobile devices to help connect troops with their families during the holiday season. Senator Griffo was joined by notable figures including Vincent Scalise, executive director of the Outreach Center, and Jake Livingston, a staff sergeant with the U.S. Army National Guard, at the launch event.
The public is encouraged to drop off devices at various locations throughout Griffo’s district, including:
– Oneida Public Library: 459 Main St., Oneida
– Sullivan Free Library: 101 Falls Blvd., Chittenango
– Madison County Distillery: 2412 Rte. 20, Cazenovia
– Jervis Public Library: 613 N. Washington St., Rome
– Central New York Veterans Outreach Center: 726 Washington St., Utica
– Chanatry’s Hometown Market: 485 French Road, Utica
– Utica State Office Building: 207 Genesee St., Utica
– New Hartford Public Library: 2 Library Lane, New Hartford
– West Winfield Library: 179 South St., West Winfield
– Sherburne Public Library: 2 E. State St., Sherburne
For every device valued at $5, the charity can provide 2.5 hours of free talk time to troops via calling cards. The collected devices will be recycled, with proceeds funding long-distance calling cards and other communication services, directly impacting the lives of service members and their families.
Senator Griffo highlighted the emotional significance of this initiative, stating, “The holidays can be a challenge for members of our military because they are often so far away from their families. The simple sound of a loved one’s voice can go a long way to lift their spirits.”
This marks the 10th year for the collection drive, which has resulted in approximately 7,400 devices donated, providing 740,000 minutes of free calls to troops since its inception. The outreach supports both active service members and veterans, ensuring they stay connected with their loved ones during difficult times.
Vincent Scalise expressed gratitude for Griffo’s leadership, emphasizing the importance of community support: “The holiday season can be a difficult time for many families, especially for those who have a loved one serving in the armed forces and away from home.”
Founded in 2004 by teenagers Robbie and Brittany Bergquist, Cell Phones For Soldiers has provided over 300 million minutes of free talk time through its program, “Minutes That Matter.” The charity distributes an average of 1,500 calling cards each week to military bases and care package programs worldwide.
By donating to this community collection drive, individuals not only help connect military members with their families but also contribute to environmental sustainability. The organization partners with a recycling firm to dismantle devices securely, protecting the environment from electronic waste.
For those interested in participating, please ensure personal data is cleared from devices before donation. For instructions, refer to the device’s manual or the manufacturer’s website.
For more information, visit www.cellphonesforsoldiers.com and help make a difference this holiday season.
