Cary, NC - Today in South Asheville at the Verizon store, Verizon and ForgiveCo held a press conference to announce their partnership in bringing consumer debt relief to 6,500 Western North Carolinians. $10 million has been set to pay off medical, financial, and other debts of necessity. Recipients will be alerted of their relief through surprise letters, emails, and text messages. To top it off, Basketball Hall of Fame coach and Asheville, NC native, Roy Williams, has agreed to help share the news with the families.
Verizon invited United Way of North Carolina to attend, after generously donating to $100,000 to the UW Helps NC Fund and $300,000 to the NC Disaster Relief Fund. On behalf of UWNC, Client Services and Reporting Manager, K'leigh Mayer, attended the press conference today. Mayer has been an integral team member during the initial Hurricane Helene response and in long term recovery, bringing the data to light to show the 31,572 disaster calls taken between September 25 - December 31, 2024.
With this incredible partnership and mission to benefit the 6,500 western North Carolinians, the following key individuals have said:
Leigh Anne Lanier, Atlantic South Market President, Verizon: “Verizon believes in the power of connection, not only through our technology but through the bonds we build with the communities we serve. To the 6,500 individuals impacted by this initiative and the broader Western North Carolina community, we are with you. We will always stand by you, not just as a business, but as a partner and a neighbor.”
Roy Williams, North Carolina native, resident, philanthropist and Basketball Hall of Fame coach: “Verizon’s random acts of kindness will lift up thousands of North Carolinians that were left vulnerable to Hurricane Helene’s devastation. These are challenging times, but I’ve seen the strength and resilience of this community. Verizon’s support is a powerful reminder that no one is alone, and together, we’ll rise stronger. It’s a privilege to share this message of hope with the incredible people of North Carolina."
Craig Antico, Founder and CEO, ForgiveCo: “Unpayable debt is a heavy burden that causes hardship for countless hardworking Americans. Often triggered by sudden medical events or accidents, the impact of natural disasters can further destabilize families and limit opportunities for generations. Through this effort, Verizon will bring transformative change to the lives of North Carolinians in crisis, leaving a lasting mark on future generations."