The Importance of Communication for Survivors
For survivors leaving abusive situations, access to safe and reliable communication is essential. Having a working phone can mean the difference between fear and safety, between isolation and the ability to rebuild a new life. Through our partnership, 911 Cellphone Bank ensures that survivors who leave our Clyde & Ethel Dickson Domestic Violence Shelter have a way to stay connected by providing 60 days of free text and call services.
We also distribute these phones through our other programs, including the Victim Assistance Court Program, which helps survivors as they navigate legal protections like filing a Domestic Violence Protective Order (DVPO). Statistics show that leaving an abuser can be one of the most dangerous and vulnerable times for a survivor, especially if their abuser has taken or damaged their phone, or is using technology to track them. Having access to a safe, clean phone allows them to stay connected with our advocates, legal resources, and their personal support systems.
"A donated phone is a lifeline. It allows survivors the opportunity to access resources that they may need and a way for them to stay safe," says Alease Foust, Safe Alliance's Advocate Supervisor of the Victim Assistance Court Program.
These phones not only offer 60 days of communication service, which survivors can extend with their provider if they choose. Even after the plan ends, the phone will still be able to make emergency 911 calls.
How Does it Work?
911 Cellphone Bank accepts donated phones and other electronic devices, then securely wipes all personal data using state-of-the-art data clearing software. This software is certified to meet the latest data erasure standards. Each device goes through a thorough, triple-inspection process to ensure complete data removal before it is repurposed for emergency use.
"Partnering with Safe Alliance means standing shoulder to shoulder with an organization that brings hope and healing to those who've endured the unimaginable. At 911 Cellphone Bank, we know a simple phone can be the difference between silence and safety, fear and freedom. This exciting partnership puts life-saving tools into the hands of survivors and helps them reclaim their voices and their futures."
Once the phones are cleared and repurposed, they are distributed to survivors who are either leaving our shelter or seeking legal protections, offering them a secure way to reach out for help and begin rebuilding their lives.
How You Can Help
We are currently accepting phone donations! If you have an old phone sitting in a drawer, don't let it go to waste, donate it to Safe Alliance. Your old phone could be the lifeline a survivor needs to stay safe and connected.
By donating your device, you are directly contributing to a survivor's ability to communicate with law enforcement, reach out to support services, and take back control of their life.
Every phone donated is a step toward empowerment for a survivor. With the help of 911 Cellphone Bank, Safe Alliance is ensuring that survivors have access to the tools they need to move forward. This partnership helps us directly meet the needs of those we serve.
For more information on how to donate, contact Safe Alliance directly. https://www.911cellphonebank.org/
