Texas-based mobile virtual network provider Patriot Mobile announced Monday its support for Cell Phones for Soldiers (CPFS), a national nonprofit that provides cost-free communication services to active-duty military members and veterans.
The organization accepts donations of used and unused phones—whether working or broken. Donated phones are wiped of personal data, then either refurbished for resale through Vendidit, an AI-powered recommerce platform, or responsibly recycled for parts. Proceeds fund CPFS programs, including Cell Phones for Soldiers Mobile, Minutes That Matter, and Helping Heroes Home.
Unused phones are cleaned and inspected to ensure they are “in good working condition and ready to be paired with new service and distributed to veterans,” according to CPFS’s website.
The nonprofit partners with trusted mobile virtual network operators—including Patriot Mobile—to provide reliable low- or no-cost mobile service on the refurbished devices.
Veterans at or below the federal poverty line, or those enrolled in government assistance programs such as SNAP or Medicaid, qualify for the free phone service. The program also delivers information on education, employment, healthcare, and local services directly to recipients’ devices.
After one year of free service, veterans may keep their phones and access discounted service plans through CPFS’s veteran-owned partners.
“Patriot Mobile is proud to support this program as part of our Veterans and First Responders-focused philanthropic patriotism,” said Jenny Story, chief operating officer of Patriot Mobile. “This grassroots, statewide effort is one of many CPFS programs Patriot Mobile supports to connect local and state officials with veterans in their communities.”
“CPFS is grateful and humbled by the generosity Patriot Mobile provides to the veterans in our programs,” said Rob Bergquist, founder and executive director of Cell Phones for Soldiers. “We work together with Patriot Mobile and our other veteran-friendly partners for the sake of our nation’s veterans at locations around the country.
“From providing recruits with communication during Christmas to connect with loved ones in the Great Lakes region, to bridging the digital divide for at-risk veterans in the communities where they live, CPFS and Patriot Mobile are making a difference,” he added.
Eligible veterans can apply through their local county Veteran Service Officer or visit www.cellphonesforsoldiers.com.