Where there is Crisis, there is Always Fraud
Hurricane Harvey, a massive Category 4, has devastated coastal regions of Texas, the major city of Houston, and surrounding communities. Americans have a long history of helping those in need after disasters. Tens of millions and possibly hundreds of millions might be raised from donations, like in the case of previous hurricane Katrina. Giving to those who need help is noble. But be wary of the scammers who use such events to solicit funds in the name of victims, but keep it for themselves. It is a huge problem.
Undoubtedly, you will be bombarded by requests to donate. Expect emails, websites, advertising links, phone solicitations, pleas in social media, and text messages all asking for your help. Some will be outright scammers, taking advantage of people who just want to help victims. Others may be legitimate charities but only actually deliver a small percentage of donated funds to the relief effort. The rest is siphoned off for advertising expenses, operating costs, large executive salaries, and business overhead.
Take a moment to think. Instead of texting some random number, clicking a web link, or giving to some unverified person, I strongly recommend you do a bit of research. If in doubt, go to the website of a trusted charity or aid organization and donate directly through their site.
When a Dollar is only 50 cents
Keep in mind, that not all donated money goes to victims. Charities take some for operating costs, including salaries of employees and executives. The percentage can be shocking. In some cases, only pennies on the dollar, actually go towards the cause. There are many responsible organizations and there are plenty who operate with a greater self interest.
Use sites like CharityWatch.org and CharityNavigator to understand how much of your donation will make its way to the people who need it. Also, charities will often hire sales and marketing companies to help solicit donations. The companies can take a large percentage of the money they raise in donations as their payment. Sadly, it has been reported that in some cases less than 1% of donated money goes to the cause. The rest is eaten up by bureaucracy, overhead, large salaries, and marketing.
Be Smart!
Don’t let scammers or high-overhead charities dilute your contribution or dissuade you from helping. Just be smart. When you decide to donate, make sure the maximum of what you are giving will go where you intend.
Image Source: https://www.defense.gov/News/Special-Reports/0817_hurricane-harvey/
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