Verizon Wireless And The Phoenix Suns Team Up To Provide A HopeLine^SM For Victims Of Domestic Violence

PHOENIX, AZ — Verizon Wireless, the nation's largest wireless provider, and the Phoenix Suns are teaming up to invite fans to help curb domestic violence in our community. Representatives from Verizon Wireless will be on the plaza at the America West Arena from 5-7 p.m. on April 11 to accept used wireless phones and accessories for the Verizon Wireless HopeLine program from fans attending the game.

Through the Verizon Wireless HopeLine program, used wireless handsets, batteries and accessories from any carrier are refurbished, recycled and/or sold. Proceeds are donated to non-profit domestic violence advocacy organizations and used to purchase handsets for victims.

"Together with the Suns, we've created a winning situation off the court," said Marni Walden, regional president for Verizon Wireless. "Domestic violence prevention and advocacy agencies are the real winners in the HopeLine program."

As part of its HopeLine program, Verizon Wireless also makes financial grants to regional and national domestic violence organizations, such as the Family Violence Prevention Fund, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and other select community interest groups. Through a comprehensive campaign with the Governor's Division for the Prevention of Family Violence, in 2001, Verizon Wireless awarded grants totaling more than $42,000 to Arizona domestic violence agencies.

Wireless phones and equipment donations can also be donated to the HopeLine program year-round at any Verizon Wireless Communications Store across the country. Tax receipts are available.

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless is the nation's leading provider of wireless communications and Internet services. The company has the largest nationwide wireless network and 29 million customers. Headquartered in Bedminster, NJ, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). Reporters and editors can find more information on the Web at http://www.verizonwireless.com.

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