RAPID CITY, S.D. — Rapid City officials are reminding residents they can donate old cell phones, tablets, chargers and cords at the City Hall lobby as part of the 911 Cell Phone Bank program, which now has a permanent drop-off location in the building.

City Hall first served as a temporary collection site during December and January, when the public donated 419 cell phones. The Pennington County Sheriff’s Office Victim’s Specialist Program collected the devices and delivered them to the 911 Cell Phone Bank. Following the success of the effort, City Hall became a permanent drop-off location in May through a partnership with the sheriff’s office.

Donated devices are repaired, refurbished, recycled and securely erased before being distributed through partnering agencies to victims of violent crimes.

Kelly Langenbau with the City of Rapid City said the city is proud to continue supporting the program, calling donated phones “literally a lifeline for victims of violent crimes.” She encouraged residents to donate phones, tablets and accessories they no longer use, noting the items can continue to provide an important service to those in need.

Donations are also accepted at the Public Safety Building, 300 Kansas City St.

For more information, contact Rebecca Elger or Jeanne Mann with the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office at 605-394-6115.