About the Program

Sheriff Thomas Dart is collecting used cell phones to distribute as 911 Emergency Cellular Phones for Cook County senior citizens who are considered at risk. By donating your old cell phone, you will be allowing seniors to feel more secure about living and traveling independently.

You might be surprised at the number of seniors who do not have even a home telephone, due to their limited budgets. You may be providing the only outlet for a senior citizen to call for emergency service. The cell phones are free to seniors and can only be used to access 911 in case of an emergency.

Senior citizens who receive the free cell phone from the Sheriff's Department will have a stronger sense of security when out in their cars, on public transportation or participating in outdoor activities.

If you are involved with a community group or business that would like to hold a cell phone drive to help the Sheriff provide Free Emergency Cell Phones for Cook County senior citizens, arrangements can be made to pick up donations.