The cell phone drive started out as an obvious way to use some old phones that people had lying around to make a big difference for a couple of youth in the program. After seeing the positive results from our first few phones, it became clear that we would be continuing the practice.
Having a basic phone can remove a huge barrier for some people who are working to improve their situation but has no stable place to live, suddenly able to follow through with employment opportunities, possible housing, or being reached by various workers that they may be involved with.
Other times, the positive effect can be as simple as someone who knows that they are prone to anger agreeing to call their YRAP mentor before they act on their anger. It can also be useful in emergency situations.
We have no set goal of phones, but will take whatever is given to us. Phones are only given out in a minority of cases where they will do the most good. If we have extras, we will make sure to put them to good use, such as by giving them to other organizations that can use them for similar purposes.
If you are interested in donating an old phone, contact us to let us know. If you are interested in becoming more involved in the project, let us know as well.