Nova Scotia

Volunteers in Lunenburg County restore phones to connect people in need

Michael Graves, the executive director of United Way Lunenburg County, has been running a successful program in Nova Scotia’s South Shore for nearly a decade. His initiative involves collecting used smartphones from people who no longer need them, getting them repaired by a volunteer, and distributing them to partner organizations in the area to help those in need.

Smartphones have become indispensable tools in today’s society, enabling individuals to perform essential tasks such as online banking, job hunting, and accessing public services. For many people, especially those facing challenges like housing insecurity or living in rural communities, smartphones serve as a lifeline for communication and connection with their loved ones and the community.

Since its inception in 2017, the program has distributed 425 devices to individuals in need, and the demand continues to grow. Graves highlighted the importance of smartphones in various situations, from helping seniors stay connected to assisting individuals in crisis situations.

Robert Brown, a volunteer based in Bridgewater, N.S., plays a crucial role in the program by repairing and updating all the collected phones in his small shop. He was introduced to the initiative by Graves and was motivated by the significant need for smartphones in the communities served by United Way Lunenburg County. Brown repairs broken screens, batteries, and cameras, ensuring that each device is in good working condition before distribution.

Brown generously offers his repair services free of charge, with United Way covering any necessary parts and providing a new charger for each phone. The collaboration between Graves and Brown ensures that every donated phone is refurbished and ready for use by someone in need.

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Once the repairs are complete, Graves carefully packages each phone in a ziplock bag along with a charger and delivers them to partner organizations for distribution. He shared heartwarming stories of how these donated phones have made a real impact, such as helping a young lady who was human trafficked and a gentleman on the brink of suicide. In both cases, the individuals were able to reach out for help using the donated phones and receive the support they needed.

Overall, the program led by Michael Graves and supported by dedicated volunteers like Robert Brown is making a positive difference in the community by providing essential communication tools to those who need them most. Their efforts showcase the power of technology in creating connections and offering support to those facing challenging circumstances.

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