Busineighbor.org Announces Cell Phone Drive To Purchase And Distribute 500 Payless Shoe Gift Cards

May 17, 2012 - PRLog -- Atlanta, GA - More than 58,000 Georgia children live in poor or low-income households and are considered homeless. According to the National Center on Family Homelessness Georgia ranks 47 out of 50 states in child homelessness.
But statistics don’t get to the heart of how a child feels when they can’t attend school because they have no shoes. If they don't have shoes, they can’t go to school. Or worse students are embarrassed and teased because they have worn or ill-fitting shoes. Interviews show a new pair of shoes can help reduce bullying, improve school attendance, boost a child’s self-esteem and help improve the economy.
This critical need has prompted a Georgia organization BusiNeighbor Inc. to take a stand and announce their kickoff of a Cell Phone Fundraising Program, in partnership with GRC Wireless Recycling and Payless ShoeSource, Inc. BusiNeighbor Inc. will earn from .50¢ up to $30.00 for every cell phone collected, regardless of age or condition. The proceeds from this collection drive will go towards the purchase of 500 Payless ShoeSource gift cards to distribute 100 cards to five Georgia local charities that provide services to homeless families at a celebration event held at Villa Christina on August 13, 2012.  

It is estimated that Americans have 3 or more cell phones they no longer use but haven't discarded or recycled.  “We can use these phones to positively change a child’s life and assist a struggling parent.  Aside from providing new shoes, let’s help restore dignity, and build confidence said Charmelle Scott, founder and Executive Director of BusiNeighbor Inc. We want these children happy in school making friends and creating positive memorable moments instead of focusing on what peers think and reflecting on their most unfortunate situation.”

BusiNeighbor Inc. is requesting assistance from local businesses to initiate collection campaigns with its employees, customers and friends. People and companies interested in donating or collecting phones can visit the organization’s website at www.BusiNeighbor.org or www.schoolshoes2012.com

About BusiNeighbor.org®
BusiNeighbor Inc. is a Georgia-based 501(c) (3) organization. Our philanthropic efforts include financial assistance to anyone in need: homeless, single parents, elderly, and veterans. We partner with a host of local organizations to foster a relationship based on compassion for our fellow neighbor.