(COLORADO SPRINGS) — A new program through the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) is helping survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence by providing safe, reliable communication and keeping old, unwanted devices out of landfills at the same time.

According to a press release, CSPD is launching the “Phone It Forward” campaign to collect used and even broken cell phones to be recycled or refurbished and given to a victim of sexual assault or domestic violence.

Oftentimes when a victim has the opportunity to get away from their abuser, they either can’t safely use their device or are forced to leave it behind, leaving victims without communication.

That’s where a refurbished phone can become a critical lifeline for a victim, and the new campaign will allow anyone in the community to drop off old or broken phones. CSPD said donated devices will be securely wiped and repurposed to assist survivors. Even damaged devices will be responsibly recycled, keeping e-waste out of landfills.

CSPD said those interested can drop off phones at one of five Phone It Forward drop boxes, located in the lobbies of the Police Operations Center and each substation across Colorado Springs.

Courtesy: FOX21 News photojournalist Jaiden Kelsey

CSPD reminds members of the community that they are not alone. If you have experienced sexual assault or intimate partner violence, it is not your fault. If you’ve been a victim of a sexual assault, contact police at 719-444-7000.