In the aftermath of this weekend’s 8.8 magnitude earthquake in Chile, Verizon Wireless has waived all calling fees for its customers trying to reach loved ones in Chile.
Starting immediately and retroactive to the time of the earthquake, Verizon Wireless customers with regular monthly bills can make calls to connect with family and friends in Chile at no cost when they're on the Verizon Wireless network in the U.S.
Verizon Wireless customers with monthly bills who receive calls from Chile will also receive those calls free of charge.
The company is making calls free for at least through March 7.  Calls made while roaming are billed at normal rates.
Dan Mead, chief operating officer of Verizon Wireless, said, "At times of crisis, we spring to action. By acting urgently, we are helping families connect without worrying about cost."
All Verizon Wireless customers who pay a monthly bill, including those formerly with Alltel, may contribute to Chilean earthquake relief efforts via their mobile phones.
To make a $10 donation to Habitat for Humanity, text the word "CHILE" to 23583; to make a $10 donation to World Vision, text the word "CHILE" to 20222.
Customers will receive a text response to confirm the $10 donation, and 100 percent of customers' donations will go directly to the relief organization's efforts to help the victims of the Chilean earthquake.
Customers will not be charged for the text messages, and the $10 donation will appear on their regular monthly bills.