Verizon Wireless last year donated $86,000 in cash and free cell phones through its HopeLine program to support women in Hawai'i affected by of domestic violence.

HopeLine program donated 227 phones each with 3,000 pre-paid minutes to shelters in the state. The value of the phone and airtime donations is $68,100.

In addition, three domestic violence organizations received $18,500 in HopeLine grants. The three organizations are the Domestic Violence Action Center, the Hawai'i Immigrant Justice Center and the Hawai'i State Coalition Against Domestic Violence

"I encourage everyone to dig through their closets, ask friends and family members for their used cell phones and accessories, and donate them to HopeLine," said Kelley Kurtzman, region president for Verizon Wireless.

"A simple phone donation can make a lasting impact on the lives of domestic violence survivors right here in Hawai'i."

For more information on Verizon Wireless' HopeLine program, visit www.verizonwireless.com/hopeline.