Verizon’s prepaid brand, Total Wireless, is making it easier for working college students to stay connected. The wireless provider has introduced a new program called “Total Spark,” aimed at helping students balance work, school, and life—without stressing about phone bills.
Contrary to earlier reports, the program does not include six months of free service. Instead, Total Wireless has partnered with Empower Work to identify five nonprofit organizations across the three cities to receive grants ranging from $50,000 to $150,000. The funding will help these organizations expand or enhance their existing programs designed to support working students—whether they are high schoolers with part-time jobs, college students juggling work and school, or parents re-entering the workforce.
The grant recipients include organizations such as TechTown Detroit and NPower in Michigan, the Wilkinson Center in Dallas, and the Jane Addams Resource Corporation and LIFT in Chicago. These nonprofits offer a range of services including job training, skill development, financial coaching, and career advancement opportunities.
In addition to the financial grants, Total Spark will also allow each nonprofit to host in-person community events at independently operated Total Wireless retail locations in each city. These events are expected to take place later this year and will serve as additional touchpoints for students to gain resources, support, and career connections within their local communities.
This initiative is part of Total Wireless’ broader Value Cares platform, which focuses on supporting underserved communities through digital access and economic empowerment programs. The company’s rebrand from “Total by Verizon” to “Total Wireless” was finalized last year, aligning with a renewed emphasis on accessible wireless solutions paired with community engagement.
Total Spark exemplifies that shift, bridging the gap between telecommunications and tangible community impact—without misleading offers of free service. Instead, it provides real, localized support where it’s needed most, helping working students advance toward a more secure and empowered future.
You can read the full report here.
