In an effort to further ensure the safety and well-being of senior citizen residents, The Town of Oyster Bay is partnering with Phones for Life, Inc., to collect unused cellular phones to be reprogrammed for 911 emergency use and distributed to eligible senior residents by the end of summer.

Phones for Life is a not-for-profit organization that endeavors to improve the quality of life among seniors by meeting their emergency medical access needs through wireless technology.

"This collaborative effort will not only help protect the environment by providing a better recycling option for cell phones, but will also help senior citizens in our communities get a sense of security," said Town Supervisor John Venditto.

"Having possession of a cell phone in the event of an emergency is certainly reassuring, and our seniors can be at ease and enjoy their day-to-day lives. Providing them with this sense of security can help increase their productivity in the community."

The cell phones are reprogrammed by the company to only dial 911 for emergency calls. They are then distributed, free of charge, to senior citizens who meet certain eligibility requirements. Items such as state of health and age are prioritizing factors when distributing phones.

The town has placed donation boxes at most town facilities, including all community centers.

Local drop boxes include:

Town Hall South, 977 Hicksville Rd., Massapequa

N. Massapequa Community Center, 214 N. Albany Ave., N. Massapequa

H. Garrick Williams Community Center, Ritter Ave., Massapequa

Radio Shack, Carman's Plaza, Massapequa

In addition, the town is reaching out to businesses throughout the town in an effort to having them host a box. "Phones for Life will send a box to your establishment, complete with a sign explaining the program. When the collection area is full, simply call the number on the box and Phones for Life will come and pick up the phones," explained Venditto. "It really is a hassle-free process."

Residents who are interested in donating their inactive cell phone, with or without charger, should drop it off at a donation box in their community. Any business and or/company interested in hosting a collection box should call 624-6350.