LETTER: Donate cell phones to domestic violence victims

From: Assemblyman Wayne P. DeAngelo, 14th Legislative District
To the editor:
   Even though Domestic Violence Awareness Month has come to a close in New Jersey, it’s not too late to support a cell phone donation program aimed at protecting victims by giving them a phone as a lifeline to safety when transitioning out of a dangerous relationship. The program serves two purposes: bringing domestic violence victims a phone that is not connected to their abuser and keeping phones that are no longer being used out of landfills.
   The number of incidents of domestic violence in New Jersey is staggering. There were 74,200 incidents in 2010 alone according to the New Jersey State Police Uniform Crime Reporting Unit.
   Donated cell phones will be refurbished and loaded with 3,000 pre-paid minutes to be given to victims of domestic violence through local charities that work with victims. All makes and models of cell phones, smart phones, and mobile phone accessories can be donated at my constituent outreach center located at The Shoppes at Nottingham Pointe at 4621A Nottingham Way in Hamilton.
   An old cell phone hidden away in a closet serves no purpose. But, once in the hands of a domestic violence victim embarking upon a new a life, they can gain their independence without fear that they are in danger of being located by an abuser. While last year’s phone model may be outdated to one person, it can be made as good as new and given to someone who needs it for their own safety.

Assemblyman Wayne P. DeAngelo

14th Legislative District