Media Resources: Press Release

Bay Federal Credit Union Collecting Cell Phones To Help U.S. Soldiers

Through July 31, 2009, Bay Federal Credit Union will collect used cell phones in support of Cell Phones For Soldiers, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that provides pre-paid calling cards to U.S. troops who are on active duty overseas. This effort helps our U.S. soldiers stay in touch with their loved ones while they are away from home.

Cell Phones for Soldiers was founded by teenagers Robbie and Brittany Bergquist from Norwell, Mass., with $21 of their own money. Since then, the organization has raised almost $2 million in donations and distributed more than 500,000 prepaid calling cards to soldiers serving overseas.

"Many local families have few opportunities to speak with their loved ones when they have been sent so far away," said Angelica Reyes, Youth Financial Education Coordinator, "This is an opportunity to bring them closer together."

Cell phones of any type, manufacturer, or carrier may be dropped off at any Bay Federal Credit Union Branch Location. Donors are encouraged to:

• Clear all personal information, such as telephone numbers and pictures, from phones prior to donating them - individuals can find out how to remove information from their specific phone model by visiting wirelessrecycling.com.
• Place tape over the battery terminal to ensure that phone and battery will not be separated.
• Donate any cell phone accessories, such as chargers, with the donated phone.

Donated cell phones are sold to a refurbishing company to raise money that is used to purchase pre-paid calling cards. Calling cards are then distributed to U.S. troops who are deployed overseas.

For more information, visit www.cellphonesforsoldiers.com or visit any Bay Federal Credit Union branch location.

Bay Federal Credit Union is a full-service financial institution that serves over 60,000 members and 500 local businesses throughout Santa Cruz, San Benito and Monterey Counties. With over $600 million in assets, Bay Federal Credit Union is the largest member-owned financial institution in Santa Cruz County and has served its members and the community since 1957. Bay Federal supports many local organizations and schools each year and 100% of employees have given their own time and money to support the community for each of the last six years. www.bayfed.com.

Amy Ivey, Assistant Vice President, Marketing and Development, Bay Federal Credit Union, aivey@bayfed.com, 831.477.8409
Patti Bond, Publicist, patti@bondmarcom.com, 831.464.7748

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