Donate Wisely to Haiti Earthquake Victims

1/13/2010

Lexington, KY - The devastation left behind from the earthquake that hit Haiti this week is overwhelming. As immediate relief needs are assessed, many Americans are looking for ways to help by donating to a charity that will help.

Your Better Business Bureau warns that fraudulent charities may emerge to try and scam donations from well-meaning Americans. Don't let a con artist fool you into giving money that won't go anywhere near the victims…but line his own pockets.

Your BBB advises you to give with your head as well as with your heart:

  • Be cautious giving online especially in response to "spam" email. Verify that the source is legitimate other than by following any links.
  • Donate to groups with "on-the-ground" presence – they have the experience to put your donations to use more quickly and efficiently.
  • Are you giving directly to an aid group or a third party that will pass it along? If so, make sure the ultimate charity recipient is legitimate and reputable.
  • Rely on your BBB as a source of information on charities.

The BBB Wise Giving Alliance has a website that can help you research how a charity raises money, uses donations and whether they meet the BBB's 20 voluntary standards of charitable solicitation. It's www.give.org.

If you truly want to help Haitian victims, then give…but give wisely….so you don't fall for it.

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Be a "Don’t Fall for It!" informant! If you have something to share you believe may be a fraudulent offer or scam, please let the BBB know! Call us at (859) 259-1008 or toll-free, 1-800-866-6668, or email us at info@lexbbb.com.