As Southern California grapples with the devastation caused by wildfires, phone companies are stepping up to support those affected. AT&T offers Unlimited text messages, calls and data for postpaid and prepaid customers until February 6, 2025. Verizon is also lending a helping hand, offering similar support to residents in Southern California.Verizon is stepping in to help those in the hardest-hit areas, announcing that it will waive all prepaid and postpaid call, text, and data fees for California residents in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego and Ventura counties starting in January. From 9 to 18 January.

VerizonThe company’s prepaid brands, such as Straight Talk, Tracfone, Total Wireless, Simple Mobile, Walmart Family Mobile, Net10, GoSmart and Page Plus, are extending service end dates through January 18, 2025 for customers in affected counties. In addition, Verizon You will waive the use of local calls, text messages and data Verizon Prepaid users on metered plans during this period.

-Stephen Keller, VerizonPacific Market President, January 2025

Keep in mind that no action is required on the part of customers to waive this usage fee. For those whose billing cycles have already closed, any applicable fees will be automatically refunded to their accounts.

Besides offering unlimited calling, texting and data at no cost, the telco has also set up free Wi-Fi and charging stations at several locations, including:

• Westwood Leisure Center | 1350 S. Sepulveda, Los Angeles 90025
• El Camino Real Charter High School | 5440 Valley Circle Boulevard, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
• Oxnard College | 4000 S Rose Ave, Oxnard, CA 93033

During difficult times like these, staying connected is crucial – whether it’s checking on loved ones, keeping in touch with friends, or most importantly, contacting the authorities if help is needed. It’s reassuring to see carriers stepping in to provide a little relief when it’s needed most.