For Immediate Release: February 2, 2006
Contact: Elliott Balch
Phone: (559) 445-5532

Assemblymember Juan Arambula (D-Fresno) has invited the media to join him tomorrow as he hands over 100 gently used cellular telephones provided by State Farm Insurance to staff at Fresno ’s Marjaree Mason Center (MMC).

MMC will provide the phones to Fresno-area women who have been victims of domestic abuse.  The phones, once issued to State Farm associates, have been retired as the company purchased replacements.

When:        Friday, February 3, 2006
10:30 a.m.

Where:       MMC Community Service Center
1600 M Street, Fresno

In addition, Assemblymember Arambula has encouraged constituents to donate their own used phones to shelters such as MMC.  Many older telephones can never be reactivated with new service plans because they do not comply with new FCC rules.  Even if not subscribed to a service plan, however, any cellular phone can be used to dial 911 in case of emergency.

“If you have a cell phone that you’re not using, then you have the power to rescue a victim of domestic violence in Fresno County ,” Arambula said to constituents.  “The Marjaree Mason Center needs your donation, whether it’s one phone or one hundred.”

Many cellular providers have drop-boxes for used phones in their stores.  Donating directly to the Marjaree Mason Center ensures that the phones are used to help victims with the greatest needs in Fresno County .

MMC is the only program providing shelter and comprehensive supportive services for women and children victimized by abuse and homelessness in Fresno County .  MMC addresses the serious and life-threatening issues of domestic violence and homelessness for women and their children by offering programs of multilevel intervention.