Roy Williams partners with Verizon to erase $10 million in Hurricane Helene debt

After Hurricane Helene devastated North Carolina, a state legend is stepping in to help. Legendary UNC coach Roy Williams partnered with Verizon to help erase $10 million in debt, the company announced.

Verizon helped clear medical, financial and other debts as part of a venture with ForgiveCo. The “random acts of kindness” model surprised those affected by the storm with the relief, and Williams delivered the news.

“Verizon’s random acts of kindness will lift up thousands of North Carolinians that were left vulnerable to Hurricane Helene’s devastation,” Williams said in a statement. “These are challenging times, but I’ve seen the strength and resilience of this community. Verizon’s support is a powerful reminder that no one is alone, and together, we’ll rise stronger. It’s a privilege to share this message of hope with the incredible people of North Carolina.”

The efforts with ForgiveCo marked the second time Verizon gave back to help with the devastation from Hurricane Helene. The company previously partnered with United Way of North Carolina to donate $400,000 shortly after the storm ravaged the state.

“Verizon believes in the power of connection, not only through our technology but through the bonds we build with the communities we serve,” said Leigh Anne Lanier, Verizon’s Atlantic South Marketing President. “To the 6,500 individuals impacted by this initiative and the broader Western North Carolina community, we are with you. We will always stand by you, not just as a business, but as a partner and a neighbor.”

How Pat McAfee impacted Hurricane Helene relief

Relief efforts came from far and wide after Hurricane Helene ripped through. ESPN’s College GameDay also turned into a key fundraiser as Pat McAfee raised money for hurricane relief through his weekly kicking contest, The Pat McAfee Show CFO Phil Mains previously said.

McAfee’s kicking contest raised more than $1.15 million during the 2024 college football season – most of which was donated to charities. Of the $1 million-plus worth of donations, most of it supported Hurricane Helene relief, according to Mains. The kicking contest also resulted in $620,000 for fans throughout the year.

During each ESPN College GameDay stop this season, one fan was selected to attempt a 33-yard field goal through a lottery system. The selected fan was guaranteed one kick for the chance to win $250,000. However, McAfee often gave participants an extra kick worth even more money after they missed the first one. ESPN college football analyst Kirk Herbstreit also agreed to put money up for grabs on multiple occasions.