Verizon Wireless 'Connects' Muskegon County, Michigan Domestic Violence Victims With Help

Verizon Wireless 'Connects' Muskegon County, Michigan Domestic Violence Victims With Help

Wireless Phones Donated to Every Woman's Place through HopeLine Program

January 6, 2002
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MUSKEGON, Mich.
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In an effort to provide domestic violence victims with added protection, Verizon Wireless has donated 15 phones with unlimited local calling and voicemail service to Every Woman's Place, the Muskegon County, Michigan-based domestic violence organization. The donation is part of Verizon Wireless' nationwide commitment to support domestic violence prevention and awareness.

In October 2001, Verizon Wireless nationally launched HopeLine^SM, the company's exclusive phone recycling program that directly benefits victims of domestic violence. The company collects previously-owned wireless handsets to be refurbished, recycled and/or sold. Proceeds are then used to purchase handsets for victims.

"These phones enable victims to leave their homes or Every Woman's Place knowing help is at their fingertips," said Wayne White, president of Verizon Wireless' Michigan Region. "Our business is built on helping people communicate. For domestic violence victims who are trying to safeguard themselves against an abuser, communication takes on even greater significance. With a wireless phone in hand, victims have a vital link to emergency services in times of crisis."

Every Woman's Place has two programs that will benefit from Verizon Wireless' donation. The Transitional Housing program is a new service that offers women who have left the shelter financial assistance for housing so they don't have to return to their abusive relationships. The Volunteer Mentoring program provides volunteer mentors, so that women can stay connected to a support system and know that help is just a phone call away. Through this donation, women in both programs will have access to the enhanced security and convenience that wireless phones provide.

In addition to the grants, the company has committed 2,000 HopeLine wireless phones with one Jean Catalino, volunteer coordinator of Every Woman's Place said, "We are very thankful for Verizon Wireless' support and donation of wireless phones. The security our clients receive from having a cell phone is incredible. And voicemail is an invaluable service for them, especially those with children."

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless is the nation's leading provider of wireless communications. The company has the largest nationwide wireless voice and data network and 31.5 million customers. Headquartered in Bedminster, NJ, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). Find more information on the Web at www.verizonwireless.com.

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