Microsoft HelpBridge: Mobile App to Get and Give Help During a Natural Disaster

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No one ever wants to be involved in a natural disaster. But when a hurricane or an earthquake occurs, one of the first things people want to do it contact family and friends. Those who are lucky enough to avoid such a disaster, also want to know quickly how they can help.

The key to responding quickly is to be prepared before a natural disaster occurs – beyond the emergency kit. Many people are turning to social media and their smart phones to connect with others and support relief efforts.

Microsoft has created a free cross-platform mobile application called HelpBridge.

Available on Windows Phone, iOS and Android devices, the app is designed to enable you to get help and give help when a disaster occurs by providing an easy way for you to:

Connect

HelpBridge simplifies the process of notifying groups of people simultaneously by sending an email or SMS message to preselected groups of people and posting a message to Facebook. You have the option to share your GPS coordinates so that message recipients will know where you are and the circumstances surrounding you.

Donate

HelpBridge makes donating easy by connecting you with 25 of the world’s leading disaster relief organizations and by providing multiple ways to help: text-to-give donations, larger contributions via PayPal, and goods donations (via partners Aidmatrix, GuideStar, Network for Good, Mobile Giving Foundation). Additional featured nonprofits include: American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity International, Mercy Corps, Salvation Army International, UNICEF, World Vision, and more.

Volunteer

HelpBridge matches you with volunteer opportunities nearby (via partner VolunteerMatch), so you can contribute time and energy to supporting those most in need after a disaster.

HelpBridge is accessible any time to support emergency preparedness. Here’s a video to show you exactly how it works:

To try out HelpBridge, click here.

Disclosure: We are part of the Windows Champions blogger group. All opinions are our own.