PORT BYRON, Ill. - State Rep. Mike Smiddy, D-Hillsdale, is reminding residents that they can still donate used cellular phones at his district office to benefit Cell Phones for Soldiers, which recycles old cell phones and tablets and purchases calling cards for military members serving abroad.
"Those who serve our country shouldn't have to heavily consider the financial costs of calling home this holiday season," Smiddy said. "Your donation of new or used cell phones or tablets will help long awaited calls between military personnel and their families happen."
To participate in the drive, just drop off old cell phones or tablets at Smiddy's full-time constituent service office, located at 201 N. Main St. Unit 2 in Port Byron. Smiddy will pass them to the Cell Phones for Soldiers organization, which recycles them in exchange for phone cards that are given to soldiers serving abroad. Robbie and Brittany Bergquist founded Cell Phones for Soldiers in 2004 and have donated more than 210 million free talk minutes to U.S. military men and women around the world.
Smiddy's office will continue to serve as a drop off location for the charity throughout the year but he is urging residents to be sure to participate this year to make the holiday season extra special for our soldiers.
"Our community has always stood behind our military, and I'm excited to continue this tradition by hosting this cell phone drive for this incredible organization," Smiddy said. "The holidays are a difficult time to be away from family, and your donation will help our heroes feel at home for at least a phone call."
For more information, please contact Smiddy's constituent service office at (309)-848-9098.
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