Cellular One has donated 25 cell phones pre-programmed to 911 to local seniors.

The company donated phones traded in by local customers after Shadow Seniors Minister Louise Jackson contacted management about a similar initiative in Florida.

"This is something wonderful for our seniors," Mrs. Jackson told The Royal Gazette.

"They can just hit a button and they have that emergency service."

The phones were presented to Age Concern executive director Claudette Fleming who will coordinate handing them out to seniors who need them.

Ms Fleming thanked Cellular One and Mrs. Jackson.

"Anyone who is in need of a cell phone should call Age Concern," she said. "We will also work with our organisational partners to see who needs phones.

"This will be a comfort for family members who have a home-bound senior. There will be some sense of security."

She said devices such as personal alarm systems can be expensive and this programme would be helpful.

Seniors can contact Age Concern at 238-7525.