The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) and Verizon Wireless are working together to aid victims of domestic violence. NOBLE is participating in Verizon Wireless’ HopeLine® phone recycling program, where NOBLE chapters nationwide will collect cell phones that are no longer in use, resulting in support for domestic violence prevention programs, including victim assistance, around the country.
“As law enforcement professionals, domestic violence is a crime that we see all too often. A victim should not have to be injured or killed before the proverbial ‘system’ gets involved. Victims must be educated regarding the full range of options available to prevent and interdict such criminal behavior,” said Joseph McMillan, NOBLE National President. “NOBLE is proud to partner with Verizon Wireless to help educate the public on this issue and to benefit such a worthwhile cause.”
Proceeds from the HopeLine program are used to provide wireless phones and grants to local shelters and non-profit organizations that focus on domestic violence prevention and awareness. Phones given to HopeLine that can be refurbished are sold for reuse and those without value are disposed of in an environmentally sound way.
“A wireless phone can be an essential safety tool for a victim of domestic violence, but it can also be used as a lifeline to stay in touch with family, counselors and employers as these women and men work to rebuild their lives,” said Gabe Esposito, director of corporate security and business continuity at Verizon Wireless. “We’re extremely pleased to work with NOBLE on their collection of old wireless phones in support of our HopeLine program and its mission of domestic violence prevention.”
NOBLE conducted a HopeLine drive earlier this year, where several thousand phones were collected.
For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com/hopeline.
