As Texas and the surrounding states deal with the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, fundraisers are popping up to help survivors of the hurricane’s path.
However, the Dallas Better Business Bureau (BBB) cautions everyone to be aware of scammers and financial campaigns that do not deliver the relief as promised.
The BBB Wise Giving Alliance (WGA) urges “donors to give thoughtfully and avoid those seeking to take advantage of the generosity of others.”
The BBB WGA provides these tips to make sure your donations get to the people affected and not in scammers’ bank accounts.
- Visit org to verify the charity and to ensure it meets the BBB Standards for Charitable Accountability.
- Remember that Crowdfunding sites typically do not research individuals who post requests for funds. While many people are trustworthy, a few scammers who have taken advantage of people’s generosity have forced donors to check credentials.
- Notice any vague appeals that do not expressly state the intended use of the funds raised.
- Donate money instead of material goods. Money provides charities with the flexibility to use the funds for specific needs.
- Be wary of any appeal that states, “100% of donations will assist victims and their families.” Reputable charities have low administrative expenditures and use donations for these expenses.
While some families create methods to collect financial assistance, notice if a registered charity is involved.
According to the BBB, “if collected monies are received and administered by a third party such as a bank, CPA, or lawyer, this will help provide oversight and ensure the collected funds are used appropriately (paying for funeral costs, counseling, and other tragedy-related needs).”
Visit the Dallas BBB for more charitable giving tips.
