In some cases the Elderly and Abused Women ( among others) may benefit from cell phone donation programs.
For example I came across this article about a phone bank in Michigan that is soliciting donations of used cell phones.
Those with old cell phones they no longer need may consider donating to a worthy cause. Those in need of a phone may be eligible and are required to fill out an application. The phones are modified to make emergency calls only prior to being redistributed.