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July 12, 2006
Disasters increase potential for fraudulent fundraising
VANCOUVER: With reports of the latest terrorist bombings dominating the news, the Better Business Bureau of Mainland BC (BBB) would like to remind the public to use caution when making donations of money to help out relief agencies following any natural or man-made disaster.
Events like the Mumbai bombings spark the desire to help out victims in several different ways and the public can express and fulfill such needs through donations to legitimate charities. Unfortunately, there is a dark side to relief efforts when fraudsters exploit the natural desire to give in times of need. The enormity of a disaster and the pleas for financial aid may blind some donors, who have good intentions, to the potential for fraudulent canvassing – this is exactly what some fraudsters are counting on.
“The BBB encourages the public to contribute to helpful causes that will assist the families and victims of these tragedies,” states Sheila Charneski, President of the BBB. “Donors should make certain, however, that the charity is properly registered with appropriate government agencies, that it describes exactly what it will do to address the needs of victims, and that it is willing to provide written information about its finances and programs.”
Do not give donations over the phone or at the door. Ask for the organization to mail its information package to you so that you can check it out. “Donors can contact the Canada Revenue Agency at 1-800-267-2384 to confirm a charity is registered or go to the website at www.cra-arc.gc.ca/charities,” Charneski notes.
If you wish to donate, the Bureau urges you to choose from recognised agencies and financial institutions as published through media announcements. “We regularly like to remind British Columbians to check out the validity of fundraisers and determine how their donation will be used before contributing”, said Ms. Charneski. “Regardless of the charity chosen, it is important to ensure that a tax receipt is obtained. All legitimate charities can issue such receipts.”