A great way to implement text messaging in disaster relief efforts:

The power of the mobile phone as the technology tool of choice became clear in the aftermath of the Haitian earthquake. SMS text messaging was used extensively by a variety of groups not only to deliver first-response emergency aid to people trapped in the rubble or with critical medical conditions but also to share information about shelter, food supplies and general sanitation advice.

Read the full article @ The Guardian. 

This isn't the first time that text messages have been used in disaster and recovery efforts. After tornadoes destroyed the community of Greenburg, Kansas, the local LSI Corporation teamed up with Club Texting to set up a text message communication system. 

Within three hours of handing out the first flyer, 47 people had signed up for the Club Texting-powered service. A week later that number had reached 177, and subscribers continue to join at a rate of 10 per day.

Read the entire case study at Club Texting.