While searching for a new phone plan I came across US Mobile. I'm not affiliated with them in any way or anything like that, I just thought that it would be something that your community may be able to use advantageously.

While talking to a representative, I learned that you can purchase a text only plan for super crazy cheap. Unlimited text for $9 tax. If you don't use data (as in 3G/LTE/4G - WiFi connections don't count towards data use) a lot or at all, this may be perfect for you. They also apparently don't have any overage charges on data, so you don't have to worry about that. They use the T-Mobile network, so they have decent coverage in a lot of the US, as well. If you have any concerns or issues, they have a live chat on their website and they were very fast and concise when I spoke to them - though you DO have to go to the Help Center instead to get to the live chat, which was weird. You can also bring your own phone as long as it is GSM/Unlocked. US Mobile will also unlock your phone for $15 to be able to use their service!

I don't know if anyone feels like this will help them or not, but I figured I'd mention it here just in case. I hope it does! :)