(Washington, D.C.) — September 14, 2006 — The Wireless Foundation, participating wireless carriers, and the American Red Cross today announced their official partnership to provide Text 2HELP, an initiative which enables wireless customers to text message a monetary donation to the Red Cross to support its relief efforts in the event of a large-scale disaster.
"Americans have a tremendous desire and willingness to pitch in whenever someone needs a helping hand, whether it's supplying their time or financial support." said Steve Largent, President and CEO of CTIA-The Wireless Association and President of The Wireless Foundation, the charitable organization coordinating Text 2HELP. "This initiative combines advanced wireless technology with the nation's premier relief organization, to give millions of wireless customers a simple and immediate way of helping others when they need it most."
In the event of a major disaster (such as Hurricanes Katrina or Wilma) the American Red Cross will collaborate with the CTIA to activate the Text 2HELP initiative. At that time, subscribers of participating wireless carriers can send a text message to "2HELP" (24357) containing the word "HELP." A $5 tax-deductible donation will be made to the American Red Cross for disaster relief efforts. Donations will appear on customers' monthly bills or be debited from prepaid account balances.
"The Red Cross is thrilled about our new partnership with the wireless industry to offer a fast and easy way to allow generous Americans to transform their compassion into action following a major disaster," said Jack McGuire, interim President and CEO for the American Red Cross. "An organization with 125 years of experience must constantly seek ways to engage supporters in new ways and The Wireless Foundation and the wireless industry are helping us do just that."
# # #
The Wireless Foundation is a non-profit organization that was formed by member companies of CTIA-The Wireless Association™ in 1991. The Foundation oversees a number of programs designed to put
wireless technology to work addressing the challenges of society. http://www.wirelessfoundation.org
All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people. You can help the victims of thousands of disasters across the country each year by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund, which enables the Red Cross to provide shelter, food, counseling and other assistance to victims of disaster. The American Red Cross honors donor intent. If you wish to designate your donation to a specific disaster please do so at the time of your donation. Call 1-800-REDCROSS or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to the Disaster Relief Fund may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P. O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013. Internet users can make a secure online contribution by visiting http://www.redcross.org
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