Free cell phones? Sounds like a scam but it isn't. Through the beneficence of a Florida communications company, Lincoln County Triad has access to an unlimited number of cell phones for the elderly, disabled, or others in need. Obtaining one is as easy as picking up your telephone.

Lincoln County Triad is a three-way effort between senior citizens, law enforcement, and community service agencies to enhance delivery of needed services to older citizens in Lincoln County. The Triad is part of a national volunteer endeavor to keep seniors physically, emotionally, and financially secure in their homes. Triad provides education programs, volunteer training and recruitment, physical and emotional support for seniors, and improved communication between seniors and local support organizations. The 911 cell phone project is just one of the many Triad programs available to assist older people.

Deborah Mullen, Lincoln County Triad chair, says that she has distributed over 300 free 911 cell phones in the last year. Her goal is to ensure that every citizen in Lincoln County who needs an emergency cell phone gets one. Mullen says that the Patriot's Day storm power outage emphasized the need for these cell phones. Lifeline, an emergency medical alert system used by many elderly and disabled individuals, does not work when there is no power. Suddenly, during the storm, many people who routinely rely on Lifeline were without this essential emergency contact.

Mullen says, "I want to make sure that every senior has one of these cell phones for emergencies."

The free cell phones have been provided by RMS Communications Group, Inc., a leader in the cell phone recycling industry. In 2004, RMS developed the 911 Cell Phone Bank Program to provide tested cell phones to the abused and elderly. Each year, RMS recycles thousands of donated old cell phones and converts these either to free 911 phones or to cash donations for law enforcement and support organizations. RMS is currently working with more than 200 agencies across the United States and has distributed thousands of 911 emergency phones. Any old cell phone that is no longer being used can be dropped off at any local police station or Senior Spectrum to be recycled through RMS.

In addition to the cell phones, Triad also provides File of Life packets to seniors at no charge. These magnetized plastic envelopes, which adhere to a refrigerator door, contain a brief accounting of a person's medical history and needs. During a crisis, the File of Life provides a quick, reliable source of essential medical information for emergency responders. This information can be particularly vital if the stricken person is unconscious or impaired.

Mullen and local law enforcement officials are also available to speak to groups about the cell phone program, fraud, elder abuse, and other issues of concern to seniors. As a volunteer organization, Lincoln County Triad is always looking for "additional helping hands and creative ideas" to create a more secure environment for seniors.

To learn more about Lincoln County Triad's programs or to receive or donate a cell phone, contact Mullen at 633-7874