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When survivors of domestic violence or human trafficking receive a phone free from their abuser’s control, they are given more than a device — they are given safety, dignity, and the chance to begin again. This National Gratitude Month, we reflect on the stories of courage, hope, and new beginnings made possible by your donations to the 911 Cell Phone Bank. Every phone given is more than a gift — it’s a lifeline that changes lives.

When a group of donated phones reach a safe house for human trafficking survivors, they become more than devices—they become lifelines, offering connection, hope, and a path to healing.

The AGA has helped transform what was once considered “lost and found liability” into a nationwide movement of compassion and responsibility — securely repurposing unclaimed devices into tools that protect, empower, and save lives. Read the full story to see how this remarkable partnership is redefining corporate responsibility in the gaming industry.

Back in 2021, we shared the story of how 911 Cell Phone Bank partnered with a dedicated Utah science teacher to bring used cellphones into the classroom for hands-on STEM learning. Fast forward to today — that partnership is still thriving, and the results are sweeter than ever.

Sustainability is top of mind for today’s travelers. More than 80% say it influences their hotel choice. One often-overlooked area where hotels can advance sustainability while reducing risk is in how they manage unclaimed items in lost and found, especially electronic devices…

National CleanUp Month isn’t just about clearing trash from parks and sidewalks. It’s also a reminder to look inside—at the closets, drawers, and lost-and-found rooms overflowing with unused electronics. These forgotten devices aren’t just clutter; when properly donated, they can keep harmful waste out of landfills and even become lifelines for victims in crisis.

Evidence rooms across the country are overflowing with unclaimed and outdated electronics—taking up space and creating unnecessary headaches for law enforcement. Instead of letting these devices sit idle, there’s a smarter solution. By securely clearing and repurposing electronics through the 911 Cell Phone Bank, agencies can clear valuable storage space and directly help victims of abuse and human trafficking.

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month—a time to remember that every life has value and that connection can save lives. In 2023, more than 49,000 Americans died by suicide—one every 11 minutes. But suicide is preventable. By learning the warning signs, listening with compassion, and sharing resources, we can help bring hope to those who feel hopeless.

Discover 5 electronic devices that will be obsolete by 2026, and learn what’s replacing them. Plus, find out how to recycle old gadgets responsibly with 911 Cell Phone Bank!

Many organizations are looking for meaningful ways to give back to their communities. Whether you’re planning a year-end employee initiative, a customer-facing outreach effort, or simply want to make a local impact—here’s an idea that’s simple, powerful, and life-saving.

National Nonprofit Day—a moment to recognize and uplift the organizations working tirelessly to improve lives, strengthen communities, and address pressing social issues. Learn how you can be involved.

Acts of violence and abuse rarely occur without witnesses. Bystander intervention has the power to change outcomes and save lives. From interrupting a harmful conversation to calling in support, small actions by engaged individuals can build safer communities.

A recent study revealed that a staggering number of phones sold at online auctions still contain sensitive data. This highlights a hard truth: If devices aren’t securely and professionally wiped, your agency/company could be liable for breaches of privacy, data theft, extortion, or worse. This article addresses the best way to handle these devices without putting the public—or the agency/company—at risk.

What happens when a guest leaves their phone behind at a casino? At Cherokee Nation Entertainment, that moment becomes an opportunity to make a difference. Through its partnership with the 911 Cell Phone Bank, Cherokee Nation ensures unclaimed devices are securely repurposed to support victims of human trafficking and domestic violence. It’s a powerful example of how businesses can turn everyday situations into meaningful acts of community care.

Women and girls account for 65% of identified trafficking victims, with children comprising nearly one-third of all cases. Traffickers frequently target refugees, migrants, and displaced individuals, preying on those with limited access to support or safety. The 911 Cell Phone Bank reaffirms its mission to provide secure phones to survivors and the advocates who protect them. Since 2004, over 250,000 devices have been distributed—each one a critical tool for escaping danger and reclaiming freedom.

Globally, millions of cellphones and other electronic devices are discarded each year, contributing to the plastic and e-waste crisis. Since 2004, the 911 Cell Phone Bank has kept millions of pounds of plastic out of landfills. Learn how your unused/unclaimed devices can help save lives.

What happens to the phones left behind in hotels, airports, or public venues? At 911 Cell Phone Bank, they’re transformed into lifelines for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking. Our latest press release shares how we’re working with organizations nationwide to turn forgotten tech into frontline support.

Hotels across Florida are finding themselves in a legal and logistical dilemma when it comes to handling unclaimed items left behind by guests. Thanks to Florida Statute 705.185, which outlines strict requirements for disposing of lost and abandoned property, hotel operators must now navigate a maze of compliance, liability, and ethical responsibility.

What happens to your unclaimed lost and found items matters. Instead of selling them for minor profit, more organizations are choosing to donate—protecting their reputation, simplifying compliance, and making a real impact in the lives of others. Here’s why donating unclaimed property is the smarter, more socially responsible choice.

This World Environment Day, the 911 Cell Phone Bank is taking action to help Beat Plastic Pollution by turning discarded electronics into tools for good. By recycling and repurposing unused devices, we’re reducing plastic waste, protecting the environment, and supporting survivors of abuse—one electronic device at a time.