Big names are teaming up to deliver life-changing support for veterans
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If you or someone you love has served in the military, a new partnership between Verizon and ForgiveCo may bring unexpected financial relief.
The $22 million initiative aims to wipe away medical debt for thousands of veterans, with no paperwork or application required.
Veterans could receive over $800 in average relief—and many have already seen their balances vanish.
With support from major sports teams and a direct outreach approach, the program is gaining momentum across the country.
Here’s a look at how it works, who qualifies, and what other benefits Verizon offers to those who’ve served.
A financial burden many veterans carry
Medical debt can follow veterans long after their service ends, often adding stress to those already managing health issues and life transitions.
Research shows veterans are more likely than the general public to carry medical debt, especially from emergencies or ongoing care.
Verizon’s partnership with ForgiveCo addresses this issue head-on by eliminating medical debt balances for eligible individuals.
So far, 6,000 veterans in the Great Lakes region have had a total of $8.8 million in debt erased.
And with more funding available, the program is just getting started.
Also read: Medical debt might still hurt your credit score—here’s what changed and how to protect yourself
How the debt relief program works
The process is refreshingly simple.
If you're eligible, you don’t need to apply or submit any forms—ForgiveCo will reach out to you directly.
This hands-off approach is designed to ease stress and prevent veterans from jumping through administrative hoops.
The average relief amount is over $800, but many recipients have had several thousand dollars in debt removed.
The initiative is expanding beyond its initial reach, with more outreach expected across the country.
Also read: Struggling with debt? These 5 categories might qualify for forgiveness
Major sports teams are helping spread the word
To amplify the impact, Verizon has teamed up with several professional sports franchises to raise awareness and boost engagement.
Participating teams include the Cleveland Browns, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, Indianapolis Colts, Pittsburgh Steelers, St. Louis Blues, and Team Penske.
These partnerships aim to connect with veterans in their own communities and fan bases.
In a creative twist, Verizon has also partnered with the Columbus Crew soccer team—pledging $500,000 in debt relief, plus an additional $100,000 for every Crew win or draw during the 2025 season, up to another $500,000.
Also read: Hero’s mission: Veteran who lost his legs in Iraq battles to stop “wounded warriors” tax
Verizon’s broader commitment to military families
Beyond this initiative, Verizon has a longstanding record of support for the military community.
The company has been named a Military Friendly employer for seven consecutive years and employs thousands of veterans nationwide.
Their programs include:
Also read: Veterans raise alarms over health risks from Nevada’s secretive Area 52
How to know if you're eligible
This program focuses on veterans with medical debt, particularly in areas like the Great Lakes, though it’s expected to expand.
If you qualify, ForgiveCo will notify you directly—there’s no need to sign up or send documentation.
Even if you’re not selected for a relief check, you may still be eligible for Verizon’s other veteran programs and discounts.
Sharing this information with other veterans could help someone in your network get the help they need.
Also read: Caregivers of veterans just got three more years of support—here’s what to know
Stories of relief and restoration
According to Andy Brady, President of Verizon’s Great Lakes region, “When a veteran sees $3,000 in medical debt disappear because of our work with the support of their favorite team—that’s not just relief, it’s restoration.”
ForgiveCo President Erik Antico echoed that sentiment, saying Verizon’s $22 million pledge “sends a powerful message to our veterans: that their service, sacrifice, and legacy will always be honored.”
The program aims not only to erase debt, but to reaffirm dignity and appreciation for those who’ve served.
Also read: He searched for his Army buddy for 40 years—what he found on the doorstep will stay with you
Support that extends beyond dollars
If you’re a veteran or know someone who is, this effort represents more than just a check—it’s part of a growing commitment to financial and emotional recovery for military families.
Verizon’s support includes both direct aid and ongoing services to help veterans build stronger futures.
By working with ForgiveCo and rallying community partners, they’re offering hope, relief, and a reminder that service is never forgotten.
Read next: This simple trick could save you thousands on your hospital bill—here’s how
Have you or someone you know benefited from this or a similar debt relief program? What other resources have helped you manage healthcare or financial stress after military service?
We’d love to hear your story. Drop a comment below, share this article with a veteran in your life, and help spread the word about this initiative and others like it.
The $22 million initiative aims to wipe away medical debt for thousands of veterans, with no paperwork or application required.
Veterans could receive over $800 in average relief—and many have already seen their balances vanish.
With support from major sports teams and a direct outreach approach, the program is gaining momentum across the country.
Here’s a look at how it works, who qualifies, and what other benefits Verizon offers to those who’ve served.
Many veterans are receiving unexpected financial relief through new debt forgiveness programs backed by major companies. Image Source: Pexels / Photo By: Kaboompics.com.
A financial burden many veterans carry
Medical debt can follow veterans long after their service ends, often adding stress to those already managing health issues and life transitions.
Research shows veterans are more likely than the general public to carry medical debt, especially from emergencies or ongoing care.
Verizon’s partnership with ForgiveCo addresses this issue head-on by eliminating medical debt balances for eligible individuals.
So far, 6,000 veterans in the Great Lakes region have had a total of $8.8 million in debt erased.
And with more funding available, the program is just getting started.
Also read: Medical debt might still hurt your credit score—here’s what changed and how to protect yourself
How the debt relief program works
The process is refreshingly simple.
If you're eligible, you don’t need to apply or submit any forms—ForgiveCo will reach out to you directly.
This hands-off approach is designed to ease stress and prevent veterans from jumping through administrative hoops.
The average relief amount is over $800, but many recipients have had several thousand dollars in debt removed.
The initiative is expanding beyond its initial reach, with more outreach expected across the country.
Also read: Struggling with debt? These 5 categories might qualify for forgiveness
Major sports teams are helping spread the word
To amplify the impact, Verizon has teamed up with several professional sports franchises to raise awareness and boost engagement.
Participating teams include the Cleveland Browns, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, Indianapolis Colts, Pittsburgh Steelers, St. Louis Blues, and Team Penske.
These partnerships aim to connect with veterans in their own communities and fan bases.
In a creative twist, Verizon has also partnered with the Columbus Crew soccer team—pledging $500,000 in debt relief, plus an additional $100,000 for every Crew win or draw during the 2025 season, up to another $500,000.
Also read: Hero’s mission: Veteran who lost his legs in Iraq battles to stop “wounded warriors” tax
Verizon’s broader commitment to military families
Beyond this initiative, Verizon has a longstanding record of support for the military community.
The company has been named a Military Friendly employer for seven consecutive years and employs thousands of veterans nationwide.
Their programs include:
- VA partnerships: Verizon helps provide communications infrastructure to Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers.
- Support for veteran-owned businesses: Resources and initiatives help veterans grow their own companies.
- Exclusive discounts: Active-duty military members and veterans can access special pricing on mobile and home internet plans.
Also read: Veterans raise alarms over health risks from Nevada’s secretive Area 52
How to know if you're eligible
This program focuses on veterans with medical debt, particularly in areas like the Great Lakes, though it’s expected to expand.
If you qualify, ForgiveCo will notify you directly—there’s no need to sign up or send documentation.
Even if you’re not selected for a relief check, you may still be eligible for Verizon’s other veteran programs and discounts.
Sharing this information with other veterans could help someone in your network get the help they need.
Also read: Caregivers of veterans just got three more years of support—here’s what to know
Stories of relief and restoration
According to Andy Brady, President of Verizon’s Great Lakes region, “When a veteran sees $3,000 in medical debt disappear because of our work with the support of their favorite team—that’s not just relief, it’s restoration.”
ForgiveCo President Erik Antico echoed that sentiment, saying Verizon’s $22 million pledge “sends a powerful message to our veterans: that their service, sacrifice, and legacy will always be honored.”
The program aims not only to erase debt, but to reaffirm dignity and appreciation for those who’ve served.
Also read: He searched for his Army buddy for 40 years—what he found on the doorstep will stay with you
Support that extends beyond dollars
If you’re a veteran or know someone who is, this effort represents more than just a check—it’s part of a growing commitment to financial and emotional recovery for military families.
Verizon’s support includes both direct aid and ongoing services to help veterans build stronger futures.
By working with ForgiveCo and rallying community partners, they’re offering hope, relief, and a reminder that service is never forgotten.
Read next: This simple trick could save you thousands on your hospital bill—here’s how
Have you or someone you know benefited from this or a similar debt relief program? What other resources have helped you manage healthcare or financial stress after military service?
We’d love to hear your story. Drop a comment below, share this article with a veteran in your life, and help spread the word about this initiative and others like it.
