Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel

Media Center

Contact: Mary Berkowitz
(614) 387-2962

Ohio Consumers’ Counsel, social service agencies, private technology firm partner to introduce free voice mail to Ohioans in the 419 area code

When: Tuesday, July 21, 11 a.m.

What: News conference

Who: Office of the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel
Leader Voice Mail / Leader Technologies Incorporated
Ohio Association of Second Harvest Foodbanks
Local social service agencies

Where: News conference to be held at the Defiance Regional Medical Center, 1200 Ralston Ave. in Defiance

Why: To announce a free, new voice mail service to be offered to Ohioans in the 419 area code that lack either a home or phone service. The service also offers a way to be contacted by potential employers, find a place to live or maintain contact with family, medical services or social service agencies.

About the Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel

The Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel (OCC), the residential utility consumer advocate, represents the interests of 4.5 million households in proceedings before state and federal regulators and in the courts. The state agency also educates consumers about electric, natural gas, telephone and water issues and resolves complaints from individuals. To receive utility information, brochures, schedule a presentation or file a utility complaint, residential consumers may call 1-877-PICKOCC (1-877-742-5622) toll free in Ohio or visit the OCC Web site at www.pickocc.org.