NEWS releases
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Betsy Bell
Sheltering Arms Senior Services
713-685-6581
bbell@shelteringarms.org
Sheltering Arms Senior Services Launches Text-to-Donate Program
Agency Becomes One of the First Houston Nonprofits to Embrace Mobile Giving
HOUSTON (August 4, 2008) - Taking a leadership role in the move to incorporate mobile technology into the world of philanthropy, Sheltering Arms Senior Services has launched a new program designed to capture donations via text message. To power its mobile platform, the organization has partnered with Denver-based Mobile Accord, Inc.
Sheltering Arms Senior Services is the one of the first nonprofits in the United States to embrace the mobile giving channel, allowing donors to connect with the organization and contribute funds through text messaging. Cell phone users now have the chance to instantly react to fundraising appeals and confirm their donation by simply sending a text message. The donation is charged to the donor's regular monthly cell phone bill and is separated from other transactions and identified as a non-taxable donation.
"Virtually anyone with a mobile phone can donate $5 to Sheltering Arms Senior Services by sending the text message ‘SASS’ to 90999. This new technology allows Sheltering Arms Senior Services to connect with constituents, acquire new donors and dramatically extend our overall reach through this vital new channel," said Melissa Houser, director of development for Sheltering Arms Senior Services.
About Sheltering Arms Senior Services
Sheltering Arms Senior Services promotes the dignity and independence of older adults through services, advocacy,
and support for caregivers. More than 53,000 Houston-area older adults and their families are helped each year via
its home health care, geriatric care management and consultation, Alzheimer’s day care, telephone reassurance, case
management and housing and energy management programs. Sheltering Arms serves as the lead organization for
Care for Elders, a partnership of more than 80 organizations whose mission is to improve the care and services
provided to vulnerable older adults and family caregivers in Harris County. For more information call 713-685-
6577 or visit www.shelteringarms.org.
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