PHILADELPHIA, PA – November 22, 2021 – Audacy has helped eradicate over $3.5 in medical debt for those in need in Oregon and Washington through “Nick and Kristen’s Medical Debt Payoff.” The event, in partnership with RIP Medical Debt, was hosted by 99.5 The Wolf (KWJJ-FM) in Portland and morning show hosts Nick and Kristen on November 15-18.

“Medical debt affects millions of Americans each year and we’re honored to have united with RIP Medical Debt – a leading advocate for medical debt relief – and our community to use our platform to help those in need,” said Kim Martinez, Senior Vice President and Market Manager, Audacy Portland. “We’re equally as proud of selfless listeners who rose to the occasion to help us achieve our goal.”

“We are beyond humbled by the generosity of the Pacific Northwest,” said Nick and Kristen. “This $3.5 million will help so many people who have been struggling for so long. No one should have to worry about paying their medical debt or gifts for their children. We are thrilled to help ease that burden for them.” 

RIP Medical Debt was founded in 2014 by two former debt collections executives, Craig Antico and Jerry Ashton. Over the course of decades in the debt-buying industry, Antico and Ashton met with thousands of Americans saddled with unpaid and un-payable medical debt and realized they were uniquely qualified to help these people in need. They used their expertise and compassion to create a unique way to relieve medical debt: they would use donations to buy large bundles of medical debt and then relieve that debt with no tax consequences to donors or recipients. From this idea came RIP Medical Debt, a New York based 501(C)(3). Over 5.3 billion in medical debts has been eradicated so far, providing financial relief for over three million individuals and families.

Audacy is committed to supporting the health and success of the communities that are the heart of its business. “Nick and Kristen’s Medical Debt Payoff” is a part of Audacy Serves, the Company’s social impact platform that raises awareness of social issues and brings communities together for good. Audacy unites with its listeners and brands to support sound communities through several pillars of impact: mental health and anti-bullying, veterans and service members, children’s health, the environment, civic education, and diversity, equity and inclusion.