Since 1995 Verizon Wireless has given out upwards of 15,000 cell phones, along with access to the company's confidential voice mail service, Hopeline, to shelters serving the
homeless and victims of domestic violence, according to Andrea Linskey, exec director of corporate communications. The phones, which are preprogrammed to dial 911, are part of the
company's program to use its technology to help people and communities improve security and emergency communications. An added benefit of this strategic piece of philanthropy -
the company has been recognized nationally and won several awards for its efforts.
(Linskey, 908/306-7845)