Army is not an easy profession. You have to fight for your country while being away from your family. And soldiers feel homesickness too. And, sometimes just a voice call can make them feel motivated and zealous. It can be a breakthrough for soldiers’ kids because one phone call can make their day. Learn more about cell phones for Soldiers.
In 2004, a non-profit organisation came into being with a brilliant idea. This organisation is known as Cell Phones For Soldiers. Cell Phones for Soldiers began in 2004 and continues to provide free communication to military members working overseas by recycling cell phones. This organisation understands the emotional needs of soldiers and helps them stay connected with their families.
Why Cell Phones for Soldiers Developed?
You will be surprised to hear how this organisation was started by two teens who realised this emotional need after they came to know about an incident where a soldier came home with a bill of 800 dollars for just talking to his family when he was on duty in Iran. They organised an event to pay off soldiers’ bills, and then they came up with this amazing idea. They decided to recycle the old phones into cash and provide them to the troops.
Who Is The Founder of Cell Phones For Soldiers?
Robbie and Brittany Bergquist started this organisation in 2004, with $21. Their motto is to provide soldiers with free phone cards so that every military member can call home for free.
What does this organisation do?
Since 2004, this organisation has provided 400 million free minutes to soldiers, mailed 2500 calling cards, and recycled 25 million cell phones for both male and female soldiers. It also started a new initiative in 2012 that is helping veterans through emergency funds.
What do they recycle?
- old cell phones or mobiles.
- Broken cell phones
- Non-working iPads, tablets, watches, Mp3 players
- Chargers of phones or mobile
This recycling also reduces the amount of waste sent to dumping areas. Ultimately this will conserve nature. However, laptops or computers are not authorised for recycling.
Helping Programs:
Right now, this organisation is working on three ongoing programs. These programs are providing financial aid to deployed soldiers. These programs are mentioned below
- Minutes that matter domestic minutes (This program provides free services in country areas)
- Minutes that matter international minutes (This program provides free services to deployed overseas)
- Helping Heroes at Home (This program provides emergency funds to soldiers returning home to eliminate their physical or emotional problems)
How Can We Donate To This Organisation?
You can donate by two methods:
Method 1:
Search for the nearest drop-off location where you can donate your cell phones. This organisation has more than 3,000 drop-off locations in the United States. Search location on google or you can also use their website to locate the area.
Method 2:
You can also deliver your unwanted phones or devices through the shipping method. After that, the recycled team will wipe off all your personal information from your devices and resell the parts of your mobile to generate income.
You can visit their website for more information
Method 3:
You can also donate funds to this organisation. Many generous donations have fueled the Nation. You can set up a new drop-off location also.
Why Should You Support This Organisation?
Being away from home can be very painful. Especially when you cannot see your kids, parents, or siblings for a long time. For Soldiers serving in overseas countries such as Afghanistan, it was an amazing opportunity. They can talk to their family without any call charges.
- It will help military officers maintain contact with their loved ones.
- It is very easy to contribute.
- It will help you in recognizing the challenges faced by veterans.
- You can also get volunteer ship opportunities.
Conclusion:
Cell Phones for Soldiers helping troops to stay connected with their families for 2 decades. Their donation policy is amazing and effective as well. You don’t have to pay a single penny. Just give your broken phones or devices and contribute to a cause.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Is Cell Phones for Soldiers a legitimate organisation?
A 100% legit Non-profit organisation in the United States who has been providing free phone card services to deployed army officers and soldiers.
- Where are Cell phones for Soldiers Located?
It is a United States non-profit organisation located in Norwell, Massachusetts.
- Can Army officers use cell phones?
Well, that depends. Army officers can use cell phones only when they are not performing their duties or when they are not involved in any operation. It is strictly prohibited for soldiers to use their cell phones during their active duty times.
- Can I use the cell phone in basic training?
Yes, you can use it. But only voice calls are allowed. Messages, exchanges of photos, or videos are not authorised. Your cell phone may be inspected in initial briefings during a call.
