These are tough times. As news of Hurricane Harvey receding brought a short breath of relief, Hurricane Irma and Maria has already made itself a threat to the residents of Florida and Puerto Rico.
Not only that, Hurricane Jose too is expected to hit the American coastline soon. These are tumultuous times and there is chaos both on the grounds and in the spirits. Brave men and women are doing all they can to help their fellow citizens.
In these tough times, help is of utmost importance. Whilst it is understood that not all us can physically help the people who need it, we can all do our part in making these times a bit easier for the people affected. We can, for example, donate money for the relief funds. And though people are eager to help, so are the scamsters to trick well intending people of their money.
Keep the following tips in mind to ensure that your money is being spent for the help that is desperately needed.
Research the Organization
Researching the organization you’re trusting your money with is of utmost importance.
Take time to go through their website and understand how they intend to help. Make sure that the organization has made it easy for you to contact them. When in doubt, reach out to them to seek information.
Give to established charities
There are many established charities that collect money when disasters strike. The government itself, will most probably open a relief fund to which the people can contribute to. Apart from this, many private organizations have well established charitable trusts for times like this.
Be wary of phone calls
When someone calls you on your phone without prior intimation, make sure the phone call is from an established organization before contributing your money.
Make sure you know where the money goes
Once again, you need to be absolutely sure of where the money goes before you donate to an organization. Seek out information and make sure that the money does not go to an individual and that it goes to an account registered with the organization’s name.
Be careful about personal information
Once you’re all prepared to send the money, make sure you’re not being asked personal information that will otherwise not be required. For example, make sure you don’t enter your card details anywhere but the payment portal. If the organization requires you to send them their card details via mail, then this is a major red flag.
Despite the possible red flags, due diligence can help create pleasant online giving experiences. Giving help to people who need it is a beautiful thing to do. GiveCentral recognizes this as your contribution towards spreading the light of harmony, and to do our part, we are running a donation campaign to raise money to help all those people affected by the Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. Please check out our crowdfunding website and make sure you donate whatever amount you seem fit.
Last modified: September 29, 2017
