For the third year, The Center Against Rape and Domestic Violence is holding a community-wide campaign to collect used cell phones. It will continue through the end of November.

Unwanted cell phones are reprogrammed to dial 9-1-1 so that CARDV advocates can distribute them to individuals facing domestic violence.

From July 2008 through June 2009, CARDV received 5,074 crisis line calls regarding domestic violence and sexual assault, and provided shelter to 85 women and 79 children. Emergency cell phones are always needed.

Due to the environmental hazard posed by rechargeable batteries, it is not a good idea to place old cellular phones in the trash. Matt Webb of Global Communications of Corvallis has partnered with CARDV to reprogram donated phones and remove all personal information free of charge.

This year, CARDV has partnered with the Oregon State University Recycling Office to provide drop-box sites at Dixon Recreation Center and the Valley Library on campus.

Additionally, drop boxes are established at Barker-Uerlings Insurance, 340 N.W. Fifth St.; First United Methodist Church, 1165 N.W. Monroe Ave.; and Global Communications, 2323 N.W. Ninth St.

CARDV's mission is to provide services and support to those affected by sexual and domestic violence, and to provide education and leadership within the community to change the societal conditions that cultivate these forms of violence. If you need help, or someone you know does, call CARDV's hotline at 754-0110 or 800-927-0197.