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UScellular donates over $56,000 in wireless hotspots and service
Community Brief

MONROE — To help provide equitable learning access and opportunities and keep local youth connected, UScellular has donated 50 wireless hotspots and two years of service, valued at $56,300, to Family Services of S. WI and N. IL as part of its After School Access Project. UScellular’s After School Access Project provides free mobile hotspots and service to nonprofits that support youth after the school day has ended and provides safe internet access for homework and education.

The hotspots supplied to Family Services of S. WI and N. IL will leverage UScellular’s wireless network, ensuring high-speed connectivity for families and youth in the Family Services’ Sexual Assault Recovery Program. This enhanced internet access enables families to fully engage in virtual schooling, access follow-up services and attend other important virtual meetings.

“Connecting people and communities is our mission and the After School Access Project is just one way that we’re helping ensure youth have the reliable access they need to grow and pursue their dreams,” said Christine Paulsen, Director of Sales and Operations for Wisconsin at UScellular. “We encourage Wisconsin nonprofit organizations to apply for this program and help us bring reliable wireless internet access to youth across America.”

Family Services of S. WI and N. IL is a multi-program social service agency committed to restoring and enhancing lives in the community through advocacy, education, counseling and case management. Within the organization, the Family Services’ Sexual Assault Recovery Program advocates for fair, sensitive and competent services and treatment for all victims of sexual assault by providing medical and legal advocacy and crisis intervention.

“We were fortunate to receive a generous donation of hotspots in 2022 and we’re grateful that UScellular recognized our increased need this year with an additional donation,” said Paula Vestin, director of survivor empowerment services at Family Services of S. WI and N. IL. “This contribution doesn’t go unnoticed by our staff and families, and helps us further our mission.”

Since 2021, the company has donated more than $12 million supporting over 100 organizations with hotspots and service nationwide. In early 2023, UScellular extended its pledge and committed up to $13 million in new funding to the program.

Eligible 501c3 nonprofit organizations are encouraged to apply by going to www.AfterSchoolAccessProject.com.

●  Certified 501c3 nonprofit organizations

●  Operate within UScellular’s service area

●  Focused on kindergarten through 12th grade

●  Not a school or government entity

UScellular is focused on addressing gaps in STEM education and is committed to connecting more than 200,000 of tomorrow’s innovators each year with the resources they need today to help shape future opportunities. Since 2009, UScellular has invested more than $35 million in monetary donations, technology resources and countless experiences to nonprofit organizations across the country.

For more information about the company’s corporate social responsibility initiatives, please go to https://newsroom.uscellular.com/

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