911 Cell Phone Bank Newsletter
August 2025
Lost and Found Cell Phones Provide New Opportunities Thanks to CATS Partnership
Around 1,000 cell phones are turned into the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) Lost and Found each year.
CATS has found a new way to give back to the community, thanks to a unique partnership with the 911 Cell Phone Bank. Watch to learn more about how recycled cell phones provide new opportunities for survivors of human trafficking and domestic violence.
When Auctioning Unclaimed Devices Backfires: What Every Business, Organization, & Law Enforcement Agency Needs to Know
A recent study revealed that a staggering number of phones sold at online auctions still contain sensitive data.
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 items without putting the public—or the agency/company—at risk.
What will your organization do this year to give back?
This Giving Season, we’re encouraging supporters to plan now to expand that impact by collecting unused phones from within their company, or even inviting the local community to take part.
It’s a powerful, simple way to give back—and we’re here to help make it easy.
✅ Custom poster graphics with your logo
✅ Zero cost, zero e-waste
E'town police collecting devices for domestic violence, human trafficking victims
In Elizabethtown, KY, the local police department is making a real impact—collecting used phones and other electronic devices to help victims of domestic violence and human trafficking connect to emergency help.
The 911 Cell Phone Bank is honored to support this effort by securely wiping and repurposing donated devices so no call for help goes unheard.
Bystander Awareness Month: Empowering Everyday Heroes to Take Action
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.
Partnerships That Power Change
We're proud to collaborate with a wide network of associations across hospitality, transportation, venue management, public safety, and tribal governance. These partnerships help amplify our mission to keep communities safe, protect sensitive data, reduce e-waste, and save lives—one device at a time. We proudly work with:
AHLA & NRFT – American Hotel & Lodging Association & No Room for Trafficking
APTA – American Public Transportation Association
AGA – American Gaming Association
IAVM – International Association of Venue Managers
IAAPA – Int’l Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions
WWA – World Waterpark Association
NSAA – National Ski Areas Association
LVHA – Las Vegas Hospitality Association
FRLA – Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association
PEAF & CAPE – Property & Evidence Associations in Florida & California
THSAC – Tribal Homeland Security Advisory Council
Because when we work together, we create safer, stronger communities.
TESTIMONIAL
Survivors need a lifeline. A donated phone can be their first step toward safety, support, and healing.
Do you have any unused or unclaimed devices?
👉 Donate today. Help someone regain control of their life: 911cellphonebank.org
APTA TRANSform Conference (Sept. 14–17)
The 911 Cell Phone Bank is pleased to announce our attendance at the APTA TRANSform Conference in Boston. This flagship gathering brings together transit professionals for workshops, technical tours, and forward-looking discussions on topics ranging from transformative technology and safety to workforce development and financing strategies.
Our team will be present—networking, learning, and seeking opportunities to strengthen transit’s role in community well-being. Reach out to set up a time to meet up!
You Make This Possible — Celebrate National Nonprofit Day with Us
August 17 is National Nonprofit Day, a time to recognize the powerful work being done by mission-driven organizations across the country — and to thank you for being part of ours.
Your support fuels our mission. 💜 Whether you’ve donated devices, shared our message, or simply followed along — you are part of something bigger.
Become a Guest Contributor for the 911 Cell Phone Bank
Have a story to tell or insights to share? We welcome guest contributors who want to help amplify our mission: providing free emergency phones to victims of trafficking, abuse, senior citizens, and other vulnerable individuals in need.
If you work with survivors, serve your community, or have experience in lost and found or property and evidence management, public safety, or social impact—your voice matters. We’d love to hear from you.
Submit your article for consideration on our blog or social media platforms and help spread awareness, spark change, and support those who need it most.
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