In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Student Government Association (SGA) is hosting a month-long cell phone drive benefitting the Southeast Spouse Abuse Program (SSAP).

Throughout the month of October, students can take used, old or even broken cell phones to the SGA office in Room 207 of the Student Union.

Phones that are collected will go directly to SSAP, and each donated phone, no matter what condition it is in, will help victims in need. According to Janice McCullen, an SSAP community liaison, the old phones will be prepared and issued to domestic violence victims.

They will include limited service that will allow them to dial out to 911 during emergencies.

Those phones that are broken will be turned in to the cell phone recycling company Shelter Alliance for credits that will allow the SSAP to obtain more emergency service phones.

The program uses these proceeds to help continue community programs for abuse awareness.

According to Morris, the effects of domestic violence can be widespread but also underestimated, many people not realizing the gravity of the situation.

“It’s something that’s not often talked about,” said Ranessa Potier, SGA Internal Affairs Committee vice chair and Senate member. “It needs attention because people are afraid to bring it up. We need – in some type, form or fashion – to give a voice to those students who feel they otherwise don’t have a voice.”

The cell phone drive is just one of the many activities and events the SGA hosts for community outreach and campus involvement.

“We want to show that the SGA not only puts on parties for students, but show the students that we also care about their wellbeing and giving back to our community,” said Morris “It is my hope that [this] brings awareness and even leads to less abuse.”

Unfortunately, there are still some misconceptions regarding domestic violence.

“The biggest thing is that people think that there is a certain stereotype for those who are victims of domestic violence,” said Morris. “It could be anyone. You just have to know the signs.”

Pamphlets from the SSAP are available in the SGA office and detail the signs of abuse as well as offer helpful information for both victims and friends of victims. They also contain the 24-hour help hotline for victims.

Students wishing to learn more about or seek assistance in regards to domestic violence can visit the program’s Web site at www.southeastspouseabuse.com or call either 1-888-411-1333 or 985-542-8384.