Jewish Family Services of Greater Hartford (JFS) and Care at Home by JFS
Privacy Policy for SMS Messaging

Effective Date: October 28, 2024

Introduction
If you are a client, volunteer, or staff member of Jewish Family Services of Greater Hartford (JFS) or Care at Home by JFS, from time to time, our staff may contact you by text regarding scheduling or other services-specific inquiries.

Your privacy is critically important to us. The following Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal information when you opt into SMS messaging. By opting in to receive SMS messages, you agree to the terms outlined below, which follow the latest 2024 regulations under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and the Campaign Registry guidelines.

  1. Information We Collect

When you opt-in to receive SMS messages from us, we collect the following information:

  • Phone Number: The mobile number provided during the opt-in process.
  • Message Interaction Data: Includes information such as delivery status, response data, and message engagement rates.
  • Consent Data: We maintain records of when and how you provided consent to receive SMS messages, including the method of opt-in (e.g., web form, keyword, or verbal consent).
  1. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

  • Send text messages based on the preferences you indicated when opting in, such as updates, alerts, or information that relates to the services you receive.
  • Ensure compliance with federal regulations, including the TCPA.

Your information will only be used for the purpose specified at the time of opt-in and will not be used to send unrelated messages.

  1. One-to-One Consent Requirement

In line with FCC regulations (March 2024), your SMS opt-in applies to communications from Jewish Family Services of Greater Hartford and Care at Home by JFS only. Your consent to receive SMS messages is specific to our organization and does not extend to third-party organizations, businesses, or affiliates unless explicitly stated and separately agreed upon.

  1. Message Frequency and Data Rates

You will receive no more than 50 messages per week, and will likely receive far less (that volume would apply only to employees or responses to text messages you may send to our staff). Please note that message and data rates may apply depending on your mobile carrier and plan. We encourage you to review your carrier’s terms for more details on messaging fees.

  1. Opt-Out Instructions

You can opt out of our SMS service at any time by replying with “STOP” to any message you receive from us. Once you opt out, you will immediately cease receiving further messages unless you opt back in. For help, you can reply with “HELP” or contact us directly at info@jfshartford.org or 860-236-1927.

  1. Data Sharing and Disclosure

We will never share or sell your information to third parties for marketing purposes without your explicit consent. We may, however, share your information with trusted third-party service providers for the purpose of facilitating SMS delivery (e.g., telecommunications providers). All such parties are bound by strict confidentiality agreements and are prohibited from using your data for any purpose other than SMS delivery.

In compliance with Do Not Call (DNC) Registry regulations (2024), you have the right to register your number with the National DNC Registry. JFS does not typically send out promotional SMS messages, and if you are on the DNC Registry, we will never send you promotional SMS messages unless you have provided express consent to do so.

  1. Security of Your Information

We take reasonable measures to protect the information you provide from unauthorized access, disclosure, or misuse. However, no system is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee the absolute security of your phone number or text contents during transmission or storage.

  1. Record-Keeping and Proof of Consent

As required by the TCPA and Campaign Registry guidelines, we maintain records of all opt-ins and opt-outs, including timestamps and the method of consent. These records are kept securely and may be used to demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements if needed.

  1. Changes to This Policy

We reserve the right to update or modify this Privacy Policy at any time. Any significant changes will be communicated via SMS or on our website. Continued use of our SMS service after any changes indicates your acceptance of the revised policy. Please check back periodically to stay informed of any updates.

  1. Contact Us

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or wish to update your SMS preferences, you can contact us at:

  • Email: info@jfshartford.org
  • Phone: 860-236-1927
  • Address: 333 Bloomfield Ave. Ste A, West Hartford, CT 06117