The Roscongress Foundation has signed a cooperation agreement with mobile network operator MTS. The two organizations will join forces for the “In this together” national helpline, which aims to support and coordinate assistance for people over the age of 60 who are at increased risk from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The agreement sets out plans for members of MTS’ volunteer movement to join “In this together” as phone operators. These people will be answering enquiries regarding purchases and deliveries of medication and other essential items. The Roscongress Foundation will provide the necessary orientation and training.
“These difficult times have led to companies from a broad range of industries coming together. General social initiatives are particularly important, of which the call centre is one. We are grateful to our partners, who have supported our endeavours in setting up this helpline, and we will be glad to welcome everyone who wishes to join the initiative. I firmly believe that our united efforts on building this project can serve as an excellent example for Russia’s entire business sector,” said Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of the Roscongress Foundation Alexander Stuglev.
The number of calls to the helpline is growing at an exponential rate, according to Maria Kiseleva, Head of the Roscongress Foundation’s Delegate Management Directorate and initiator of the project. In the six weeks since it was first launched, more than 2 million calls have been processed. The figure highlights the need for more people. “We greatly appreciate our partners’ willingness to support our project. After all, it is only by joining forces that we will be able to rise to all the challenges we face, and make it through this difficult time,” she said.
“MTS has been running a large-scale volunteer movement for many years now. Today, it is made up of more than 7,500 employees. In these trying times, we need volunteers more than ever. We are delighted to be able to join this helpline initiative and provide all the support it needs,” said Elena Seregina, Director of the Corporate Social Responsibility Department at MTS.
#InThisTogether is a nationwide initiative. Among those involved in the project are the Roscongress Foundation, the All-Russia People’s Front, the Association of Volunteer Centres, the nationwide Medical Volunteers movement, Volunteers for the Constitution, Rostelecom, MTS, various entrepreneurs, non-profit organizations, and members of the public.
The call centre operates 24 hours a day.
Helpline number: +7 (800) 200 3411.
