The News Room [News Archive]
Sheriff Contact: John Roach: 313-224-0615
Release Date: Monday, October 18, 2004
Sheriff launches new program to provide seniors with emergency
cell phones
It’s estimated that in the United States there are over
45 million unused cell phones sitting in drawers and closets, collecting
dust. Although none of those phones may have an active calling
plan, they still can be used to dial 911. That’s why Wayne
County Sheriff Warren Evans today announced a new program that,
over time, he says will put thousands of them into the hands of
senior citizens for use in an emergency.
Evans began handing out the first 100 phones of the “Cell
Phones for Seniors” program to elderly residents from across
Wayne County at a kick-off event today at his office. The first
batch of phones was donated by the Livonia Police Department.
“These days cell phones have become almost a disposable
item, which means a growing number of people have one sitting in
a drawer or closet not being used,” Evans said. “Instead
of letting those phones go to waste, we want to get them in the
hands of senior citizens so they can have added security and peace
of mind.”
An emergency 911 call is always free and will connect the user
to the nearest local emergency operator. However, in order for
the operator to send help, the person calling will need to tell
them their exact location, Evans said. Since demand is initially
expected to exceed supply, the Sheriff’s Office will begin
compiling a waiting list and distribute the phones on a first-come,
first-serve basis, Evans said.
How to receive an Emergency 911 Cell Phone from the Wayne County
Sheriff’s office:
- Contact the Sheriff’s Office at:
313-224-0615 or 313-224-0051 to receive a free phone or
to have your name placed on the waiting list
Anyone wanting to donate a working cell phone and charger may
do so by dropping them off to the following Wayne County Sheriff’s
Office locations:
- Administration Building, 1231 St. Antoine near
Greektown
- Road Patrol Office, 3100 Henry Ruff in Westland
- Highland Park
station, located in Model T Plaza on Woodward Ave., two blocks
north of the Davison Freeway
When donating a phone:
- Include all chargers and any other accessories
you wish to part with
- Place all items for each phone into a plastic
bag that can be tied or sealed so the accessories do not get
mixed up with those of other phones
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Sheriff's News...
Sheriff of Wayne County
1231 St. Antoine
Detroit, MI 48226
Ph: (313) 224-2222
Fx: (313) 224-2367