Salvation Army tries text donations in Ohio
Over the past year, the concept of mobile donations have created a big buzz. The first we saw in the mainstream media was a United Way Text-2-Give ad during Superbowl XLII. Other than that, the sightings have been rare. Now, however, it seems that times are changing.
A pilot program will allow Ohioans to donate to the Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign this holiday season by sending a text message to a number posted near 80 kettles in the Columbus area. The program is aimed at younger, tech-savvy donors who are less likely to carry cash.
When the campaign begins in late November, people will be able to make a $5 donation, which is then posted to cell phone bills.
Salvation Army officials have talked about creating a texting program for about three years and hope it will be successful enough to expand nationally, spokeswoman Melissa Tomme said.
"Particularly this year, where the economy is such a huge factor, we're all cautiously optimistic about fundraising but we don't really know what to expect," she said.
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