MuskogeePhoenix.com, Muskogee, OK

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November 13, 2009

Red Cross to use cell phone technology to boost blood donation, education

The Red Cross Blood Services, South Central Division has implemented a mobile media program offering people the opportunity to sign up for text alerts on blood inventory levels, receive educational information about donating blood, make their next donation appointment or locate the nearest blood drive.

Donors can subscribe to Red Cross texting simply by sending redcross to 42227 or registering at bloodisneeded.org.

Linda Montgomery, a counselor for 37 years at the VA Regional Office and a regular Red Cross blood donor, gave the program a thumbs-up.

“I think it would be fine,” she said. “Most people text and check their text messages. I think it would be good to have a reminder text message.”

Montgomery said the program is a good way to make use of modern technology.

“They’re matching up what the Red Cross does with trends in technology,” she said. “I think it might bring in some young people.”

The Red Cross will offer real-time alerts to critical blood inventories, tips for successful blood donations or early notification of new promotions. Once a cell phone user signs up, they will be able to make appointments via a click to call feature or locate a blood drive by entering a zip code.

“Providing a means of entry with text is very smart,” said David Spear of LSN Mobile. “By offering the texting option to donors, the Red Cross will deliver relevant content anywhere, anytime, on demand, nurturing a one-to-one relationship.”

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