BBB Warns About Phony Disaster Relief Organizations

As Hurricane Dorian begins to devastate the East Coast, many people are starting to donate to the many disaster relief funds that have popped up for those affected. While this is a great cause to support, the Better Business Bureau is warning that those looking to donate should be careful which fund they choose to donate to. Before you donate, check the trustworthiness of the organization, by visiting Give.org to access free reports that specify if the charity meets the 20 BBB Standards for Charity Accountability. Also, check to see if the organization has an on-the-ground presence in the impacted areas. Unless the charity already has skilled operations in the affected areas, it may be difficult to provide assistance quickly and effectively. And also Find out if the charity is providing direct aid or is raising money for other groups. Some charities may be raising money to pass along to relief organizations. If so, you may want to consider avoiding the middleman.