Verizon and Chicago Bears Partner to Provide $2 Million in Medical Debt Relief for Illinois Veterans

Rhea-AI Summary

Verizon (NYSE:VZ) and the Chicago Bears have partnered to provide $2 million in medical debt relief for Illinois veterans, as part of Verizon's larger $22 million commitment to eliminate medical debt for veterans across the Great Lakes region through 2026.

The program has already eliminated $8.79 million in medical debt for over 6,000 veterans throughout the Great Lakes market since 2024, providing an average relief of $1,400 per veteran. The initiative joins Verizon's existing partnerships with major sports franchises including the Cleveland Browns, Detroit Lions, and Green Bay Packers. Veterans will be contacted directly by ForgiveCo, with no application required.

Positive

• Already eliminated $8.79 million in medical debt for over 6,000 veterans since 2024
• Strategic partnership expansion with major sports franchises across multiple markets
• No application process required for veterans to receive debt relief

Negative

• None.

News Market Reaction

-0.74%

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-0.74% News Effect

On the day this news was published, VZ declined 0.74%, reflecting a mild negative market reaction.

Data tracked by StockTitan Argus on the day of publication.

CHICAGO, Sept. 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Verizon Great Lakes and the Chicago Bears today announced a partnership to provide $2 million in medical debt relief specifically for Illinois veterans, as part of Verizon's groundbreaking $22 million commitment to eliminate crushing medical debt for veterans across the Great Lakes region through 2026.

This initiative targets the crushing weight of medical debt—a significant burden that disproportionately affects veterans transitioning to civilian life and seeking care. By removing this obstacle, the program aims to provide a pathway to greater financial stability for those who have served the nation.

Since launching in 2024, Verizon's veteran medical debt relief program has already erased $8.79 million in medical debt for over 6,000 veterans throughout the Great Lakes market, providing an average of more than $1,400 in relief per veteran.

"The Chicago Bears have always represented the heart and soul of this city, and today we're proud to stand with them in supporting the veterans who call Illinois home," said Andy Brady, President, Verizon Great Lakes. "This isn't just about erasing debt—it's about giving our veterans the fresh start they've earned through their service to our country."

“We’re proud to team up with Verizon on this important initiative supporting our veterans,” said Meka White Morris, Executive Vice President of Revenue & Chief Business Officer of the Chicago Bears. “Partnerships like this reflect the best of what we can accomplish together by delivering resources that drive financial stability and well-being for those who have served our country. Just as we strive for excellence on the football field, we’re equally committed to ensuring veterans feel the strength and support of the entire Bears and Verizon family.”

The Chicago Bears join Verizon's existing partnerships with prominent sports franchises, including the Cleveland Browns, Columbus Crew, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, Indianapolis Colts, Pittsburgh Steelers, St. Louis Blues, and Team Penske, amplifying the impact of this veteran support initiative.

Veterans impacted by these relief efforts will be contacted directly by ForgiveCo; no application or enrollment is required. Verizon also offers special discounts for veterans and active military members on mobile and home internet plans. To learn more or check eligibility, visit verizon.com/military or a participating Verizon store.

About Verizon: Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) powers and empowers how its millions of customers live, work and play, delivering on their demand for mobility, reliable network connectivity and security. Headquartered in New York City, serving countries worldwide and nearly all of the Fortune 500, Verizon generated revenues of $134.8 billion in 2024. Verizon’s world-class team never stops innovating to meet customers where they are today and equip them for the needs of tomorrow. For more, visit verizon.com or find a retail location at verizon.com/stores.

About ForgiveCo: ForgiveCo is a Public Benefit Corporation that provides business advisory services to corporations, non-profits, and brands for the acquisition, administration, and cancellation of consumer debt, and advisory services in the fields of branding, goodwill creation, and bulk debt management – Transforming debt into goodwill.™

Media contact:

Katherine Cruz
katherine.cruz@verizon.com
(312) 771-1272

Rachna Luthra
rachna.luthra@verizon.com
(773) 636-3070

FAQ

How much medical debt relief is Verizon (VZ) providing for Illinois veterans?

Verizon is providing $2 million in medical debt relief specifically for Illinois veterans, as part of a larger $22 million commitment across the Great Lakes region.

What is the average medical debt relief provided by Verizon's veteran program?

The program provides an average relief of $1,400 per veteran through the Great Lakes market initiative.

How many veterans has Verizon's medical debt relief program helped so far?

Since launching in 2024, the program has helped over 6,000 veterans, eliminating $8.79 million in medical debt throughout the Great Lakes market.

How can veterans apply for Verizon's medical debt relief program?

Veterans do not need to apply - eligible veterans will be contacted directly by ForgiveCo. No application or enrollment is required.

Which sports teams are partnering with Verizon for veteran debt relief?

Verizon partners with the Chicago Bears, Cleveland Browns, Columbus Crew, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, Indianapolis Colts, Pittsburgh Steelers, St. Louis Blues, and Team Penske for this initiative.