NEW YORK & HOUSTON – First Data has sent thousands of its Clover Go mobile credit and debit card readers to the Houston area to distribute free to business owners who were impacted by Hurricane Harvey. The initiative, designed to help the local economy get back on its feet, includes free device installation and discounted pricing, in addition to the free Clover Go mobile readers.

On Sunday, September 3, First Data representatives began staffing a command center at the JW Marriott in Houston to distribute the devices. Business owners unable to pick up their free device can receive one by visiting www.FirstData.com/HurricaneHarveyRelief or by calling a toll-free customer service hotline at (844) 882-2438.

“The lessons of 9/11, Hurricane Katrina, and Superstorm Sandy remind us that one of the most crucial steps toward recovery is to help small business owners open their doors and start serving their customers,” said Frank Bisignano, chairman and CEO of First Data. “Whether a business needs to replace a payment device damaged in the storm, or set up shop in a temporary location with a mobile payment reader, we hope that our efforts can help impacted businesses get up and running quickly.”

For businesses that are not currently clients of First Data, the company is offering free Clover Go devices with no setup fees and no minimum monthly fee for the next six months. Current First Data clients whose payment hardware was destroyed in the storm can receive new Clover Go devices, at no charge.

Clover Go is an EMV-enabled, mobile card reader that plugs into an iOS or Android tablet or smartphone and works with a Wi-Fi or cellular connection, allowing business owners to accept secure payments. The rechargeable battery-powered Clover Go, which fits inside the palm of a hand, allows credit or debit card payments through traditional swipes, dips, and touch transactions such as Apple Pay.

For more information, go to www.FirstData.com/HurricaneHarveyRelief.