When a freshman at St. Stephen’s Episcopal School began volunteering at mobile food pantries, he discovered that medical debt was a bigger obstacle than hunger.
The Spark
Eli Cooper Yorio first learned about the problem while helping families in need. “I was very surprised by that,” Yorio said. “As someone who wants to be a medical professional in the future, I took it upon myself to try and find a way I could help with the problem.”
The 26 for 26 Campaign
In 2022, Yorio launched the “26 for 26” campaign with a bold goal: eliminate $2.6 million in medical debt in Travis County by the time he graduates in May 2026. He has already surpassed that target, raising more than $26,000 through outreach, charity golf tournaments, and a grant.
Partnering with Undue Medical Debt
Yorio’s strategy hinges on a partnership with Undue Medical Debt, a nonprofit that purchases portfolios of unpaid medical bills for pennies on the dollar and uses donations to erase them completely. On average, $1 donated can wipe out $100 in debt, according to Yorio.
“Undue uses those donations to go buy up debt from hospitals or from a debt collector,” he explained. “Hospitals and debt collectors are kind of eager to get rid of that debt, so they’re willing to sell it for really cheap.”
Impact to Date
The money Yorio has raised has erased $4.75 million in medical debt for 3,835 people in Travis County, nearly doubling his original goal. “I want to kind of reach the $5 million mark by the time I graduate,” he said. “I also want to raise awareness for what Undue is and what it can do.”
Advocacy Beyond the Classroom
Balancing school and fundraising is no small task. Yorio has met with local and state officials, including the governor’s office and the Austin city council, to advocate for partnerships that could expand his efforts statewide and eventually nationwide.
“It was definitely scary because I didn’t know if my message would be received,” Yorio said. “I think it’s important to plant those seeds.”
He also highlighted the challenge of gaining trust: “Honestly, getting people to respond sometimes, because they probably think it’s a scam or wonder who this kid is reaching out to them,” he noted.
Personal Motivation
Despite the hurdles, Yorio finds the work deeply fulfilling. “It feels really fulfilling,” he said. “And I think it just inspires me to do more and more, because I’ve realized what I can do, even at a young age.”
He envisions the campaign growing beyond Texas: “I think it’s certainly possible to go to Texas and nationwide,” Yorio said. “Undue has campaigns all throughout the nation.”
Looking Forward
For now, Yorio is focused on finishing strong before graduation. “Once we get someone in Austin or Texas to put money toward this campaign on a more long-term basis, that would make me feel like I succeeded,” he said.
How to Help
Anyone interested in donating can do so at any time by visiting the Undue website. Yorio will also host a fundraiser at the end of the year; those who want to support the “26 for 26” campaign may stop by Cobo Bob’s off Rio Grande Street on Tuesday, Dec. 30, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Simply show the flier below at checkout to contribute.
Key Takeaways
- High-schooler Eli Yorio launched a campaign to eliminate $2.6 million in medical debt by 2026.
- He has already erased $4.75 million in debt for 3,835 people, raising $26,000 in donations.
- Yorio partners with Undue Medical Debt, which turns $1 into $100 of debt relief.
Eli Yorio’s story reminds us that even a young volunteer can spark change when he tackles the hidden cost of healthcare that keeps families from putting food on the table.
