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NZ Drug Foundation and Run The Red, National
The New Zealand Drug Foundation and Run The Red mobile enablers, with support from the Vodafone Graduates, are launching a new drug information service for the txt generation: "Get the Msg".
Get the Msg" will be rolled out nationwide on September 1, 2006 for a four month free trial period on the Vodafone network. Get the Msg will be rolled out to other networks following this trial period.
This service is a free text message information service where people can text the names of drugs, including common street names, to DRUG (3784) and receive safety information and links to further information and help.
This service will have a significant benefit to young people. Using one of the most effective youth communication channels, Get the Msg will provide factual health information about drugs to inform and assist them to make good decisions. The service will also benefit parents and others who work with young people.
The project is an initiate of the Vodafone Graduate Programme, a scheme where recent graduates champion a corporate responsibility project. The Drug Foundation is delighted to be working with Vodafone Graduates and Run The Red mobile enablers to bring "Get the Msg" to New Zealand.
New Zealand is the second country in the world to operate this service, following Ireland. The Irish service sent out 40,000 text messages in the first month of operation, after originally anticipating only 10,000 in the first six months.