Got A Used Cell Phone? Donate It To A Senior!

By Jan Howard

Newtown Social Services Director Glynis Lanzetta is seeking donations of used cell phones for free distribution to senior citizens for use in calling 911 during an emergency.

The program, which is modeled on a similar program in Ridgefield, began January 29 and is aimed at seniors who drive and do not have phones in their cars, Ms Lanzetta said.

Senior citizens interested in obtaining a free cell phone should call the Social Services office at 270-4330.

Residents interested in donating cell phones can bring them to the Social Services office at Town Hall South, 3 Main Street, behind the police department.

 “The whole thing is wonderful. There is no cost to anybody,” Ms Lanzetta said. “I’ve already received calls from people who wanted to donate them.”

She estimated that about 100 cell phones would be needed for distribution to senior citizens and disabled people who drive. “Whatever we get donated, we can distribute,” she said.

Nunnawauk Meadows, a senior housing development, would be a good place to start, she noted.

“I think it would be a wonderful idea,” Newtown Senior Center member Bea Piskura said. “A lot of times you’re out in the car and something happens, especially if you live in the country like I do. If you’re out and get a flat, you can’t just walk up to someone’s house to use the phone. Most of the time no one’s home or there are no houses nearby.

“I’d be interested in it,” Ms Piskura added. “It’s a good idea.”

Betty Zlamany agreed. “My daughter is always saying you never know where you might have an accident. It’s a great idea.”

Ms Lanzetta said her office will keep a running list of people interested in participating in the program. “When we get some phones, we will begin to distribute them,” she said.

She said her office already has a list of seniors who drive and live independently. “We will call the list to see who needs one, once we get a response to our request for donations.”

 Ms Lanzetta said all cell phones have the function of calling 911 only. Before the phones are distributed, the phones would be checked to make sure they are in working order. “We’ll plug them in and check them out,” she said.

“As long as a cell phone is charged, it will be programmed for connection to 911,” Ms Lanzetta said. “We just have to remind the seniors to keep them charged.”