US Cellular's 'Hope' helps get people connected

A special program is allowing people to contact their families this Christmas, who might not have been able to otherwise. <br><br>US Cellular "Hope" program offered free wireless phone calls to homeless

Tuesday, December 24th 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

A special program is allowing people to contact their families this Christmas, who might not have been able to otherwise.

US Cellular "Hope" program offered free wireless phone calls to homeless and disadvantaged people Tuesday. Folks who stopped by the Salvation Army could get in touch with their loved ones anywhere in the United States, and wish them a Merry Christmas.

Ed Perez with US Cellular says its nice to help keep people connected. "You know there are a lot of happy phone conversations, because many of these people have not talked to their loved ones in months, perhaps a year. So there's been a lot of smiles and happiness throughout the room today."

Last year the program helped people make 150 phone calls, and even reunited two families.