About Us

In the developing world, a lack of regular channels to information and resources prevents city-based anti-trafficking advocates from providing adequate resources to rural and at-risk communities. As advocates travel from cities to do outreach education to isolated/vulnerable regions, they are often remain disconnected from those who are in critical need of regular communication. The mission of Freedom Connect’s Freedom SMS Project is to advance anti-trafficking networks in underserved communities using innovative mobile technology. Helpline SMS Networks consist of: NGOs, legal advocates, social service providers, law enforcement, and other key stake holders who act as first responders in a trafficking case. The Helpline SMS Network is able to use this mobile network to regularly stay in touch with rural communities vulnerable to human trafficking, provide regular updates and information at a low cost, and respond to emergencies and prevent trafficking. We’re using Frontline SMS, a free open-source platform that enables large-scale, two-way text messaging using only a laptop, GSM modem and inexpensive cell phones. By using this technique, we are preventing slavery and human trafficking one text at a time!

By Donating to Phones4Freedom, Freedom Connect will earn “points” or “credits” to purchase the appropriate mobile equipment for Freedom SMS anti-trafficking networks. The average donated phone in the US will allow us to purchase 2-3 phones. You can also donate old digital cameras and mp3 players. No chargers or plugs required. Send in your phone today!

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FAQ

Does it cost money?

If you’re shipping in the US then absolutely not! The shipping labels are prepaid, thanks to our generous partner Clover Wireless. If you wish to donate from outside the US, email us at hello@phones4freedom.org to explore possibilities.

Does my phone's condition matter?

Doesn’t matter one bit. Send us any and all phones, beat up and old. Our recycling partner will take care of them. What happens to my phone? We have partnered up with Clover Wireless to recycle and process your phone. They will either refurbish or fully recycle the phone. Phones4Freedom will receive “credits” or “points” for every phone you send it, which will then allow us to purchase appropriate phones for our anti-trafficking advocates and anti-trafficking networks around the world. 100% of the value of your cell phone is used to obtain the right phones for the networks.

How can I start a collection campaign at my place of business, school, place of worship etc?

Email us at hello@phones4freedom.org with details about your ideas. We will send you a kit with everything you need to start your own collection campaign. This will include a unique shipping label for you so we can track how many phones are donated through your campaign. In addition, we’ll send a collection box and fundraising kit including handy flyers and images for your use. 

I have personal information on my phone, how do I get rid of it?

  Removing your SIM chip is step 1. This will remove all contacts. However, you may still have contacts, notes, and pictures saved on your phone’s memory. In order to remove it, can follow the instructions here OR Clover Wireless will do it for you!

I have more electronics at home. Can I recycle and donate them?

  You sure can! Clover Wireless has expanded their recycling categories to include laptops, MP3 players, digital cameras, camcorders and gaming systems. You may use the same shipping label to send those as well.. Survivors Connect will receive credits for all electronics donated and recycled.
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Donate

Here’s how you can donate:

  1. Print out a Shipping Label (btw postage is on us!) Print out labels for multiple packages. If you’re donating from Canada, please send your donation with Fedex (Account #183021400 to: CloverWireless, 794 Industrial Court, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, Attn: Phones4Freedom Enterprise Program code: SCONNECT
  2. Deactivate your phone and leave the batteries in. Also, clear your personal data. To learn more visit this site. Include the charger if you have it, but it’s not necessary!
  3. Put the phones in a padded envelope or box (and wrap securely), paste the prepaid shipping label and drop it off at any US Post Office Box.
  4. And there you have it! You can get further involved with Phones4Freedom by telling your friends, family, colleagues and classmates. Print out Flyer and shipping labels for them, and pass on our information.

Are you a Group/Business/School/Place of Worship interested in starting a Phones4Freedom Drive? Read our SMS Freedom Fundraising Kit, email us at hello@phones4freedom.org or contact us here for more information.

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