SMS Donations For Gulf Oil Spill Relief

One of the iconic images of an oil spill disaster is the site of a bird or fish on the shore, covered in oil.  With the largest economical disaster in the United States’ history spreading through the Gulf of Mexico, the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) has launched a text-to-give campaign as part of its efforts to raise money to help animals affected by the BP oil spill.

The NWF is hoping to see similar success that the American Red Cross had last year when it launched a similar campaign for the victims of the Haitian earthquake.  That campaign raised an unprecedented $32 million in less than a month and brought mobile giving into the national spotlight.  For those who are unfamiliar with a text-to-give campaign, consumers can text a keyword to a shortcode, and the donation is automatically added to the next month’s bill. 

To contribute to the NWF campaign, text ‘WILDLIFE’ to 20222.  Here is a transcript of the SMS conversation.  Note the double opt-in strategy and that each message contains STOP instructions.

Me: Wildlife
7:18 am

20222: Free Msg: To confirm your $10 donation to Save Wildlife, reply with the word YES. Terms at hmgf.org/t reply HELP for help Reply STOP to cancel.
7:18 am

Me: Yes
7:18 am

20222: Thanks! $10 charged to your phone bill.Txt WILDLIFE up to 5x for OilSpill donations. Info?Visit hmgf.org/t or txt HELP.STOP to cancel.
7:19 am