SaskTel’s Phones for a Fresh Start (PFFS) program offers Saskatchewan residents three great reasons to recycle their old cell phones.

By donating a used cellular device, PFFS helps keep our planet green, assists people fleeing domestic violence and now aids youth transitioning out of permanent or long-term care from the Ministry of Social Services.

“We’re proud to be a leader in environmental sustainability and to support Saskatchewan people in need,” said Jodine Smith, SaskTel Communications Manager. “The fact that this program supports our commitment to a greener province and also helps vulnerable groups is a win-win situation for everyone involved.”

As one of Canada’s Greenest Employers since 2008 (as recognized by Mediacorp Canada Inc.), PFFS also plays a part in our leading environmental policies and programs in communities across Saskatchewan.

The program is partially funded by the proceeds of recycled cell phones, batteries and accessories donated through the program. The remaining funds are contributed by SaskTel.

On average, 96 per cent of the materials in a standard mobile device are recyclable. However, only 12 per cent of used mobile devices in Canada are currently being recycled — the rest are stored, sold, gifted or thrown out. As a result, 20 to 50 million metric tonnes of e-waste are disposed of worldwide each year.

Since the program’s introduction, PFFS has recycled a total of 124,813 customer devices.

Since 2009, through a partnership with the Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan (PATHS), PFFS has provided free cell phones and phone cards to individuals feeling domestic violence.

Recently, on April 30, 2021, SaskTel’s Phones for a Fresh Start (PFFS) program expanded to include youth transitioning out of permanent or long-term care from the Ministry of Social Services. Cell phones and phone cards will be provided to youth by their worker to help in their transition to independence.

“SaskTel is a major contributor to the quality of life in Saskatchewan,” said Doug Burnett, SaskTel President and CEO. “Phones for a Fresh Start has done that for people fleeing domestic abuse and will now do that for young people transitioning out of care of the Ministry of Social Services. Providing this ‘fresh start’ enables youth to find a home, look for a job and stay in touch with support networks.”

To date, SaskTel has provided PATHS with $101,000 in prepaid phone cards and 4,070 wireless phones for distribution at 24 PATHS member agencies across the province. In addition, 250 phones and $5,000 worth of phone cards have been provided to the Ministry Social Services for youth transitioning out of care.

“For youth transitioning out of care a phone can be a lifeline, enabling them to stay in touch with vital support networks,” said Lori Carr, Minister of Social Services. “We are proud to work with SaskTel to expand such a great program to youth in our province so they can stay connected as they set out on the path to independence.”

If you have an old cell phone that is not in-use, SaskTel encourages you help support your community and those in need by dropping off devices for recycling at any SaskTel Store and participating dealers.

Before you drop your phone off, be sure to deactivate it and remove all your personal information like contacts, phone numbers, photos, and SIM cards. Once donated, it can’t be reclaimed.

You can also ship your phone to us for free through Canada Post using the Return ID Number PR713389. Visit canadapost.ca to print your return label.