REGINA – SaskTel today announced Friday the expansion of its Phones for a Fresh Start program so it will now 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 to help in their transition to independence.
Since 2009, through a partnership with the Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan, SaskTel Phones for a Fresh Start has provided free cell phones and phone cards to individuals fleeing domestic violence. By expanding the program, SaskTel is assisting another group in the province who requires connectivity to vital support networks to succeed.
“SaskTel is a major contributor to the quality of life in Saskatchewan,” said Doug Burnett, SaskTel president and CEO, in the press release. “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.”
Youth who are currently transitioning from ministry care, such as foster care or group homes, will be contacted by their worker and arrangements will be made for them to receive a cell phone and one-time $20 phone card.
The SaskTel Phones for a Fresh Start program is partially funded by the proceeds of recycled cell phones, batteries and accessories donated through the program. SaskTel contributes the remaining funds.
