As rescue missions continue in Louisiana following Hurricane Ida, people here in Western Michigan may want to help. That can often mean contributing to fundraisers to help rescue and recovery efforts. The Better Business Bureau Serving Western Michigan has some tips to keep your donations safe.
“This is a time when all of us really want to reach out, but it’s also a time for scammers to try to take that money that is intended to help victims.”
Katie Grevious is the Communications Specialists with the BBB Serving Western Michigan. She says if you’re looking to help during these times, they advise seeking out an experienced charity.
“In this kind of a situation you want your money to go directly to the victims and those helping the victims. Charities that have experience and are already down there are your best bet. We have a list on our website, at give.org. that’s our charity website so you know they are actually there at those disaster sites helping those people.”
Grevious says some seeking charitable giving may have good intentions but may not have the means to get to the actual disaster areas. And then there are the actual scammers.
“We always want people to use caution. Click here for disaster relief. We want you to . they can hack your information, you’re actually getting scammed.”
Again, Grevious says you can find a complete listing of accredited charities at their charity website, at give.org.
