SaskTel has expanded the Phones for a Fresh Start program to help another vulnerable group.

Through a decade-long partnership with the Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan, SaskTel Phones for a Fresh Start has given free cell phones and phone cards to people leaving domestic violence situations who need them.

Now, the program will also give a free phone and phone cards to youth who are transitioning out of Ministry of Social Services permanent or long-term care.

SaskTel President and CEO Doug Burnett said in a statement that by expanding this program, it allows these young people to find a home, look for a job and stay in touch with support networks.

Youth who are currently transitioning from ministry care, such as foster care or group homes, will be contacted by their worker and arrangements will be made for them to receive a cell phone and one-time $20 phone card.

Other residents can support the program by donating their old unused phones. The proceeds from these phones support the program, with SaskTel filling in the rest.

People can drop the phones off at any SaskTel store or participating dealer.