Fville police collecting used cellphones to raise money for domestic violence council

The Fayetteville Police Department is collecting unused cellular phones to help raise funds for the Fayette County Council on Domestic Violence.

Phones will be accepted regardless of whether they work, police said. They may be dropped off at the police department at 105 Johnson Ave. weekdays from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

The donation drive will end Tuesday, Sept. 30.

Persons who wish to receive a receipt for tax purposes should include their name and address along with their phone when they turn it in.

A private company will refurbish the phones and distribute them to persons who have been abused or stalked; the company will in turn donate funds to the council on domestic violence.

The council plans to use the funds for its Lighthouse Transitional Housing Program, which gives families a place to stay while the abused spouse gets back on her feet. The council also provides counseling and free legal services in addition to other assistance for victims of domestic violence.