Emergencies, natural disasters, and urgent crises require nonprofits to act quickly. When every minute counts, traditional communication methods like email, mailers, or social media posts may not be fast enough to reach supporters. Also, when internet goes down, text messages can still reach people in need. Text messaging provides a direct, immediate, and highly effective way for nonprofits to raise funds and mobilize resources during emergency giving campaigns.
With 90% of text messages opened within three minutes and Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) allowing the inclusion of compelling images and videos, texting ensures that your message reaches donors when it matters most.
1. Raise Emergency Funds Instantly with Text-to-Donate
Text-to-donate campaigns allow supporters to contribute immediately from their mobile devices, removing barriers and streamlining the giving process.
Ways to maximize emergency giving:
- Send a short donation link describing the urgent need
- Use MMS to share images or videos highlighting the crisis and how donations will help
- Provide options for one-time or recurring emergency gifts
Pro tip: Be concise but impactful. A short text highlighting the urgent need with a clear call-to-action can significantly increase contributions.
2. Keep Donors Informed with Real-Time Updates
During emergencies, transparency and timely communication build trust and encourage continued support. SMS enables nonprofits to share updates instantly and maintain donor engagement.
Effective strategies include:
- Sending progress updates on relief efforts and how funds are being used
- Sharing images or videos from the field to show impact
- Providing alerts for additional campaigns or urgent volunteer needs
Even brief, regular updates can strengthen relationships and reinforce the importance of donor contributions.
3. Mobilize Volunteers and Coordinate Support
Many emergencies require rapid volunteer deployment. Text messaging ensures volunteers receive timely instructions and can respond quickly.
Ways to use SMS for emergency volunteer coordination:
- Send shift reminders and location updates
- Communicate last-minute changes or safety instructions
- Provide direct links to sign-up forms or donation pages
By improving volunteer responsiveness and coordination, SMS helps nonprofits maximize impact during urgent campaigns.
Why SMS Works for Emergency Giving
SMS offers advantages that make it essential for emergency campaigns:
- Instant: Messages reach supporters immediately.
- Direct: Delivers a sense of personal urgency.
- High engagement: Text messages have a 98% open rate compared to about 20% for email
See a Real Case of Texting Used in an Emergency
When First Baptist Dallas experienced a fire on their premises, texting was the primary way they communicated with their people to send real-time updates and coordinate a new location for Sunday in less than 48 hours.
This immediacy makes SMS ideal for critical situations where timely donations and action are necessary.
FAQs About SMS for Emergency Giving
Can SMS be used for both fundraising and volunteer coordination during emergencies?
Yes. Text messaging is versatile and can support both immediate giving and rapid volunteer mobilization.
Is SMS affordable for emergency campaigns?
Yes. SMS is cost-effective compared to traditional methods, and its high engagement often leads to a strong return on investment.
Do supporters need an app to participate?
No. Anyone with a mobile phone can receive and respond to emergency giving texts.
Put the Power of SMS to Work for Your Nonprofit
SMS is a critical tool for nonprofit emergency giving. It enables immediate fundraising, rapid updates, and efficient volunteer coordination when every second counts. By leveraging text messaging, nonprofits can increase donations, engage supporters, and respond to crises more effectively.
Powered By Text can help your nonprofit develop a tailored SMS strategy for emergency giving, ensuring your message reaches supporters when it matters most. Contact us today to get started.
