DIRECTV has launched a dedicated 24/7 “Hurricane Katrina Information” channel that is providing vital information concerning hurricane Katrina relief and recovery efforts to evacuees in shelters across the Gulf Coast as well as to DIRECTV viewers nationwide.

Since it went live, The Hurricane Katrina Information channel has been providing viewers with the ability to send text messages to family and friends separated by the hurricane and its aftermath – messages are scrolled across the bottom of the television screen on DIRECTV channel 100. To place a message on this channel for family and friends, viewers can send an e-mail message to katrina@directv.com or send a text message via their cellular phone directly to text code “48433.”

 Information available on the Hurricane Katrina Information channel includes:

* Transportation infrastructure – road closures throughout the Gulf region

* Counties/parishes in the Gulf region that are able to assist evacuees

* Special needs shelters – the location and phone numbers of special needs shelters in Louisiana

* Shelter openings throughout the Gulf Coast region

* Insurance company contact information

* Relief agency contact information, including phone numbers for the Red Cross, Salvation Army and Feed the Children

Updated information will be posted on the channel as necessary. DIRECTV is collaborating with the Red Cross and FEMA to provide DIRECTV service to shelters throughout the Gulf region to inform evacuees and officials of the latest developments concerning the ongoing relief and recovery efforts.  DIRECTV is also working with local, state and federal officials to make this vital communications tool available for them to communicate with those impacted by the hurricane, especially those in shelters.

 Text messaging capabilities are provided by Los Angeles-based GoldPocket Wireless’s integrated mobile platform.