In a remarkable show of support for communities still struggling with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Verizon has partnered with ForgiveCo to erase $10 million in consumer debt for 6,500 residents in Western North Carolina. This initiative comes as many families continue to face financial hardship in the wake of the devastating storm, which upended lives and left a lasting impact on the region.
The beneficiaries of this relief were informed through letters, emails, and text messages, notifying them that their medical, financial, and other debts had been completely cleared. Unlike traditional debt relief programs that require lengthy applications and qualifications, this initiative was executed without requiring any action from recipients. ForgiveCo, an organization dedicated to performing “random acts of kindness,” purchased the debt outright, ensuring that struggling individuals and families could move forward unburdened.
To make the moment even more special, legendary Basketball Hall of Fame coach and Asheville native Roy Williams personally delivered the good news to some of the recipients. His involvement added an extra layer of inspiration and warmth to the initiative, reinforcing the idea that the community stands together in times of need.
“These are challenging times, but I’ve seen the strength and resilience of this community,” said Williams. “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.”
For individuals like Shelley Queen of Jackson County, this act of generosity was nothing short of life-changing. Queen’s home was severely damaged by Hurricane Helene, but her financial struggles began long before the storm. She had been grappling with mounting medical debt after being diagnosed with diabetes, a condition that led to numerous hospital stays, including instances where she fell into a coma and required life-saving treatment.
“There were numerous hospital visits, including times I was in a coma and needed a pump to survive. These medical challenges have been difficult, both emotionally and financially. This forgiveness is truly a life-changing gift,” said Queen. With her medical debts cleared, she now has the chance to rebuild without the constant weight of financial insecurity.
The impact of Verizon and ForgiveCo’s initiative extends beyond individuals; it strengthens entire families and communities. Craig Antico, Founder and CEO of ForgiveCo, emphasized the transformative effect of the debt relief program. “Through this effort, Verizon will bring transformative change to the lives of North Carolinians in crisis, leaving a lasting mark on future generations,” he said. By erasing millions in debt, the initiative is fostering long-term stability for affected families, allowing them to focus on recovery rather than financial despair.
Another recipient, Tim Luker of Jackson County, faced compounding struggles after the hurricane struck. He had been hospitalized with congestive heart disease just a day before the storm, and by the time he was discharged, his home was uninhabitable due to water damage, flooring issues, and significant damage to his yard. The financial burden of medical bills combined with home repairs became overwhelming.
“When I got out of the hospital, I couldn’t go home because of storm damage,” Luker recalled. Receiving news that his $11,000 debt had been wiped out was an emotional moment. “It means everything to me,” he said. “I don’t have much… $11,000 is life-changing for someone like me. This makes a huge difference.”
Verizon’s initiative with ForgiveCo highlights the power of corporate responsibility and community-driven support. By alleviating financial stress felt by thousands of individuals, the telecommunications giant is providing more than just relief—it is offering hope and a fresh start for families in crisis. As Western North Carolina continues to recover from Hurricane Helene’s devastation, acts of kindness like these serve as a reminder that even in the toughest times, resilience and generosity can pave the way for a brighter future.
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