Deloitte, Cell Phones for Soldiers and the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs team up to donate devices

To support Cell Phones for Soldiers and in collaboration with the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA), Deloitte hosted its first Device Day at the Florida State Capitol on March 20.

As part of the event, legislators and staff, state employees, community members and Deloitte employees donated cell phones and other electronic devices to active-duty military members and veterans.

Cell Phones for Soldiers is a nonprofit organization committed to bridging the communication gap for military families. Since its founding in 2004, the organization has provided more than 400 million minutes of free talk time.

“As a veteran and a public servant, I know firsthand the power of a simple phone call to lift spirits and strengthen resolve. In hard times, a familiar voice is priceless,” said Sen. Jay Collins, United States Army Special Forces combat veteran, Green Beret and Purple Heart recipient.

“This program ensures that no service member has to go without that lifeline. Many thanks to Deloitte for the excellent work they do through the Cell Phones for Soldiers program.”

Devices collected during Deloitte Device Day will be shipped to Cell Phones for Soldiers where they will be refurbished for resale or responsibly recycled. The proceeds will fund free cell phones and 12 months of free talk and text service for veterans and active-duty military members.

Rep. Yvette Benarroch, a United States Air Force veteran who served during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm and received the National Defense Service Medal, reflected on her own experiences.

“During my time in the service, being separated from my loved ones was one of the most challenging aspects of deployment. Deloitte Device Day is a crucial initiative that helps service members and veterans stay connected with their families, no matter the distance.”

“As a proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force, I know firsthand the dedication and sacrifice it takes to serve,” said Sen. Keith Truenow. “Keeping deployed personnel and veterans connected with their loved ones is an incredible cause. I hope we see Deloitte Device Day become an annual tradition at the Capitol.”

“Initiatives like this are crucial in ensuring that our veterans stay connected with their families and loved ones,” said Bob Asztalos, Deputy Executive Director of the FDVA. “We are grateful to Deloitte and Cell Phones for Soldiers for their partnership in supporting our veterans, and we look forward to continued collaboration to enhance the services we provide to those who have served our country.”

“What started as an idea by a couple of kids has since evolved into a nationwide effort to keep military families connected,” said Rob Bergquist, founder and director of Cell Phones for Soldiers. “We are grateful to Deloitte and FDVA for their collaboration in expanding our mission here in Florida.”

“Deloitte is proud to be part of this important initiative because it enables us to show our appreciation to those who answered the call to serve and those who have sacrificed so much for our country,” said David Friedman, principal, Deloitte Consulting, LLP, and the leader of Deloitte’s work with the State of Florida.

To learn more about how the donation process works or to find additional ways to support Cell Phones for Soldiers, visit www.cellphonesforsoldiers.com/how-it-works.

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