Receiving a Smartphone Through the CNIB Foundation’s Phone it Forward Program

Friday, April 19 2019 | 09 h 23 min | News

In September 2018, CNIB formally unveiled Phone It Forward – a program that gives Canadians a unique opportunity to donate their old smartphones, receive a tax receipt, and empower people who are blind.

Scott Seiler dreamed of owning a smartphone, but the cost, and lack of hands-on training, was a barrier.

As someone who had never sent a text message, Scott says he felt disconnected from the outside world. He longed for something that would allow him to connect with people without having to rely on memorizing multiple phone numbers. 

Through the CNIB Foundation’s Phone It Forward program, Scott received a free smartphone and one-on-one user training.

Slightly nervous about learning how to send text messages, he was shocked at how easy the process is. 

“I thought I was going to have to press all kinds of buttons to type out a message, but I just talked to Siri,” says Scott. “Getting the smartphone is one piece of the puzzle – having access to training is key. I’m in my late fifties; I didn’t grow up accustomed to this stuff.” 

Now, he’s learning how to use the built-in voiceover technology to help stay connected with family and friends. 

Scott says his smartphone has given him peace of mind. He is continuing to learn how to use the device and hopes to become proficient.

Visit phoneitforward.ca to donate your smartphone and change the life of someone who is blind.

Click HERE for the full press release.