The Wireless Industry’s Response to Haiti--Last Updated January 14, 2010 at 5:15 PM EST

CTIA and the wireless industry are continuing to work closely with the U.S. government and NGOs to provide aid and assistance to Haiti.

With only three cell phone carriers in Haiti, the U.S. government continues to state that texting (or SMS) is the most effective communications tool to reach loved ones in Haiti right now. Preliminary reports indicate two of the three are up.  Debris is blocking the roads preventing an accurate assessment of communications infrastructure. There is very little commercial power, and fuel supplies are low.

The Department of Homeland Security’s National Coordinating Center (NCC), the operational arm of the National Communications System (NCS), are coordinating aid efforts. Their first requests are for stand-alone satellite based units (Go kits) that can provide voice/internet circuits out of Haiti for government and aid responders. The key telecommunication needs are still access, security, fuel, and funds. 

The good news is that the Port Au Prince Airport ramps are already filling up with aircraft and supplies. We are working with the U.S. State Department, US AID, and the NCS to coordinate and ensure aid is delivered efficiently, effectively, and safely to the designated locations.

CTIA members, including the four largest carriers and the primary supplier companies are staging equipment (satellite phones, generators, mobile site, microwave gear, etc.) near airports and in Miami, awaiting requirement requests from the State Department. Similar supplies are being sent from nations around the world. We are working out the details on how the various entities will coordinate spectrum usage as the wireless and satellite systems are deployed.
 
U.S. carriers also are supporting the American Red Cross relief efforts by participating in the text donation program. Wednesday, January 13th was the biggest day in history for donations sent via wireless device. At 6 AM EST on Thursday morning, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton announced that more than $3 million has been donated via text. As of 1 PM EST, it increased to $4 million. As of 5 PM, the American Red Cross announced $5 million has been donated. Wireless customers can text “Haiti” to “90999” to donate $10 to American Red Cross or text “Yele” to “501501” for a $5 donation to support Yele Haiti efforts led by Wyclef Jean. Carriers pass through 100% of the donations sent through either one of these programs. 

As more information is available, we will keep you updated right here on our blog.