As you may be aware, the New York State Senate launched a program in the spring of this year to assist victims of domestic violence. In partnership with Bell Atlantic Mobile's ''Wireless At Work'' Recycling initiative, I joined my Senate colleagues in opening my district office as a drop-off location for the donation of used cellular phones, which were then reprogrammed to dial 9-1-1 at the touch of a single button.

The response to the cell phone drive has been overwhelming as nearly 1,700 cell phones have been donated countywide. I would like to personally thank all of you who graciously and generously donated your phones for this extraordinary cause. I am heartened by the compassion and commitment of so many Long Islanders to those in need of protection.

The phones have been delivered to the Nassau County Coalition Against Domestic Violence and are being distributed to victims of domestic abuse. While for many of us cell phones are just a convenience, they will serve as a lifeline for Long Island women and their children who suffer at the hands of abusive partners.

My heartfelt thanks to all.

Michael A.L. Balboni
State Senator