National group pays agencies for used cell phones

Name of the program: Shelter Alliance

What it does: The national private sector company is based in Miramar, Fla., and has a presence in every state. It pays for used cellular phones that are donated by agencies that use the program as a fund-raiser. The participants have earned more than $3 million since 2001. Alliance participants are organizations of all types, such as shelters, social service providers, community organizations, religious organizations and schools.

Who participates in Spokane: The Spokane County Domestic Violence Consortium.

How it works: The consortium sends its donated phones to the Shelter Alliance. The Alliance pays the consortium, and the money is put back into the consortium. Not all phones donated to the consortium are sent to Shelter Alliance. The consortium has about 10 to 20 cell phones at its office that are given to local agencies that give them to their clients.

How to get help: By referral from various agencies. A victim goes to the sheriff or other law enforcement agency and will be referred to the consortium to get a phone for the purpose of making 911 calls, if necessary.

How to give help: Businesses upgrading their employees’ cell phones and private users are encouraged to drop off their used cell phones at the consortium, 1425 N. Washington St., Suite 209. All cell phones, regardless of age or condition, are accepted. For more information, go to shelteralliance.net and domesticviolence.net. To donate a large number of phones, call Allison at 487-6783.