The Charitable Recycling Program, Bloomfield, Mich., is accepting used cell phones and making a monetary contribution to AmeriCares for every cell phone received, to bring hope and relief to those affected by the Tsunami that destroyed towns and villages in Asia Dec. 26.
AmeriCares has mobilized emergency response teams and airlifts into Sri Lanka and India, with preparation underway for Indonesia. AmeriCares’ aid is focusing on providing essential medicines, medical supplies, personal care items and vital water purification treatments.
“We are truly appreciative of Charitable Recycling’s innovative and generous commitment to giving at this critical time,” AmeriCares’ Ashley Cross says. “In the aftermath of this tragedy, millions of people are now at risk for disease. These donations will allow us to ensure that our medicines and other aid will reach those who need it most, as quickly as possible.”
AmeriCares is a non-profit disaster relief and humanitarian aid organization providing immediate response to emergency medical needs, as well as long-term humanitarian assistance programs. AmeriCares solicits donations of medicines, medical supplies and other relief materials from U.S. and international manufacturers and delivers them to areas around the world.
With an estimated 500 million cell phones being retired by the end of this year, the fundraising potential is staggering. Many donated phones will be re-distributed as 911 phones for battered adults and senior citizens. Other donated phones are reused in less developed countries where the cost of a new phone is prohibitive. Obsolete phones are destroyed in an environmentally responsible manner, Charitable Recycling says.
“Americans know from our own catastrophes, such as the Florida hurricanes this past fall, the important roll organizations play in the rebuilding effort and that any and all help is appreciated,” adds Beth Morawski, program director for Charitable Recycling.
For more information on this program, visit www.charitablerecycling.com.