Cingular Customers Can Use Text Messaging to Help Victims of Tsunamis

March 31st, 2006

Cingular Wireless said today it is offering many of its customers the opportunity to use text messaging -- free of charge -- to make contributions that will help victims of the cataclysmic tsunamis that hit South Asia and East Africa on Dec. 26. Separately, the company and its employees will donate up to $2 million to disaster relief efforts.

"We are encouraging our customers and our employees to do what they can to help. Every contribution, small or large, can make a big difference in providing relief to the people affected by this disaster," said Stan Sigman, president and chief executive officer of Cingular. "In the coming days and weeks, Cingular will look at other forms of assistance we might provide."

Beginning today, many Cingular customers will receive a free text message inviting them to make a donation of $1.99 or $.99 to one of three organizations: The International Fund of the American Red Cross, UNICEF, and the Save the Children Fund. Customers simply need to reply to the text message -- which is also free -- with the organization they choose and the amount they wish to give. One hundred percent of their donation will automatically go to the agency selected, and that charge will appear on their next bill, the company said.

"If all of these customers make even a small contribution, they would have a significant impact on the recovery efforts. In an effort like this, the word 'small' has no meaning," Sigman continued. "Cingular chose these three relief agencies because their unparalleled record of getting aid to those who need it most."

Separately, the company and it employees have made a commitment to provide up to $2 million in assistance to victims of the tsunamis. Cingular will match up to $1 million in employee contributions to The International Fund of the American Red Cross, UNICEF, and Save the Children.