Children's charity renews mobile phones appeal
A children’s charity today renewed an appeal for people to hand over their old mobile phones to be recycled or given to developing countries.
The Jack and Jill Foundation, which runs services for young people suffering from cystic fibrosis, sent out 80,000 jiffy bags to people who requested them but only a fraction have been returned.
The foundation ships working phones to developing countries for reuse and damaged handsets are also stripped down and recycled.
Foundation patron, TV money guru Eddie Hobbs said: “We are thrilled so many people have said they will donate their old mobile phones.
“If there are any unwanted phones in your home, school or place of work and send them in to us.
“Every one we receive will help Jack and Jill to care for children in desperate need of professional care.”
Only 4% of the 15 million unwanted mobile phones in Ireland are recycled.
Faulty batteries from the phones donated will also be sent to a special processing plant in France where they can be environmentally disposed of.
Phones can be donated by calling 1850 525 545 to request a freepost recycling envelope.
People with more than 15 phones to recycle can also request a free courier collection.
The Jack and Jill Foundation was launched in 1987 by Jonathan Irwin and his wife Mary Ann O’Brien after they discovered a lack of state services for their son Jack, who suffered from cystic fibrosis.
It provides 24-hour care for sick children and support to their families throughout Ireland.
