Kifowit Asks Resident to Join Cell Phone Drive to Help Survivors of Abuse and Assault

AURORA, Ill. – Throughout the year, state Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, D-Oswego, collects used cellphones and in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, she is hoping to triple the amount of used cell phones usually collected to help benefit survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Residents are invited to drop off cell phones, accessories and chargers for Mutual Ground domestic violence shelter in Aurora.

“I have been proud to partner with Mutual Ground over the last several years and help collect cell phones for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault,” Kifowit said. “For many women, these cell phones are a lifeline to escape their tormentors.”

Residents can bring old cell phones to Kifowit’s constituent service office, located at 1677 Montgomery Rd. Ste. 116 in Aurora, Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Fridays, 8:30 a.m. to noon throughout the year, but Kifowit is focusing on the month of October, which is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Donated cell phones will be reprogrammed and given to people in need or recycled with the proceeds going towards helping victims. Mutual Ground is one of the oldest and largest domestic violence and sexual assault service agencies in Illinois. They provide 24-hour hotlines staffed by trained crisis intervention advocates who counsel over 2,000 women a month. Those interested in donating their time or other resources can reach Mutual Ground at 630-897-0084.

“We all need to be aware every day of our family, friends and colleagues that are experiencing domestic violence,” said Vickie Smith, executive director of the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence. “However, during October which is designated as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, local communities take time to host a number of events that honor those that have died and celebrate those that have broken free of the bonds of domestic violence.”

For more information, please contact Kifowit’s constituent service office by phone at 630-585-1308, by email at Stephanie.Kifowit@att.net, or by visiting www.ILDistrict84.com.