Central STL News

Verizon has announced an increased commitment to its veteran debt relief initiative, raising its pledge to $22 million through 2026. The program, which is run in partnership with ForgiveCo, aims to eliminate medical and financial debt for military veterans across the country.

In St. Louis, a new collaboration will see $25,000 in local veteran debt erased for every regular-season win by the St. Louis Blues during the 2025-26 season. This effort builds on previous work that has already relieved $8.79 million in debt for more than 6,000 veterans in the Great Lakes region.

The program addresses the significant burden of medical and financial debt faced by many veterans as they transition to civilian life and seek care. Organizers say that removing this obstacle can help provide greater financial stability for those who have served.

Since its launch in 2024, the partnership has provided over $4 million in medical debt relief to more than 4,800 veterans, averaging over $800 per person. Collaborations with sports organizations such as the Pittsburgh Steelers, Green Bay Packers, Indianapolis Colts, Team Penske, Columbus Crew, Cleveland Browns, Detroit Lions and St. Louis Blues have played a key role in expanding the program’s reach.

“The Blues deeply value the courage and sacrifice of our region's military veterans, whose service inspires everything we stand for as a team and a community,” said Steve Chapman, Blues Chief Revenue and Marketing Officer. “We're proud to partner with Verizon and ForgiveCo on their program that celebrates every Blues win this season by providing life-changing debt relief to local veterans most in need.”

Verizon also announced a new alliance with Major League Soccer’s Columbus Crew as part of its expanded efforts. The company will provide an initial $500,000 in debt relief there, plus an additional $100,000 for each win or draw during the rest of the 2025 season—up to another $500,000.

"When a veteran in Detroit or Cleveland 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,” said Andy Brady, President of Verizon Great Lakes. “These aren’t numbers on a ledger. They’re our neighbors, our colleagues, our community. And they deserve more than gratitude––they deserve action.”

"Verizon’s $22 million commitment sends a powerful message to our veterans: that their service, sacrifice and legacy will always be honored," said Erik Antico, President of ForgiveCo. "When companies lead with purpose and connect that purpose to the cultural and community impact of sports, the results are both transformative and lasting."

Verizon has been recognized as a Military Friendly company for seven years running and employs thousands of veterans nationwide. Its support includes working directly with Veterans Affairs medical centers on communications needs and offering resources tailored for veteran-owned small businesses.

Veterans affected by these programs will be contacted directly by ForgiveCo; no application process is required. Verizon also provides special discounts on mobile and home internet plans for veterans and active-duty military members.

For more information about eligibility or available discounts visit verizon.com/military or go to a participating Verizon store.