Sep 16, 2005 : Front Range Supports Rescue Workers

📅 September 16, 2005 - Colorado-based Internet service provider Front Range Internet (frii.com -> hostinger.com) announced on Thursday it has partnered with several technology innovators to deliver Internet access and phone service to Hurricane Katrina evacuees and rescue personnel, enabling them to get in touch with family and rescue personnel.


Former Louisiana native Kevin Cupit had been researching a way to help Katrina victims when an anonymous friend referred him to non-profit organization called RadioResponse (radioresponse.org) which was recruiting technology specialists across the US and Canada to deploy wireless networks and voice over Internet pProtocol to shelters in Louisiana. The anonymous party contacted Cupit's own Internet provider, FRII, to inquire about a source for Internet phones knowing that the company offered VoIP phone services.

"We jumped at the opportunity to help and by 5 p.m. the same day, we had equipment configured and out the door to serve 22 phone lines," says Shawna Killen, director of sales and marketing for FRII. "I am proud of our people for pulling together quickly as a team not only to arrange the donation but also to configure the gear so rapidly."

FRII arranged for a donation of VoIP licenses from its provider, New Global Telecom (ngt.com). The anonymous friend purchased equipment at cost and FRII is donating all other phone costs, such as long distance and round-the-clock support, for at least the next three months.