CORPUS CHRISTI (Kiii News) -
We have seen this over and over again, but whenever or wherever a disaster strikes, folks here in South Texas always seem to comes through.
But, before you decide to donate to a relief organization, you need to make sure your money doesn't end up in the wrong hands.
There are so many different organizations out there to donate to, some legit, others a front for scammers, and your money is on the line.
"Watch when your online, your emails," said Alan Bligh, Regional Director of the Better Business Bureau. "If you contribute into a plea from Craigslist, that's leading you to a right hook."
In fact, Bligh said scams were online before Sandy even hit the east coast. He had some tips to keep in mind before handing over your money:
- Be cautions of any relief organizations that suddenly spring up.
- Find out if the organization is giving direct aid, or raising money for someone else.
- Donating money is the best thing, rather than supplies.
"Especially if they are raising things like goods, water, clothing," Bligh said. "It really becomes an issue, we find that out. Look at Haiti. All these semi trucks loaded with goods, still sitting in Miami. Can't get them over there."
Bligh said your best bet is to stick with well established organizations like the American Red Cross or the Salvation Army.
If you have a question about a charity before you donate, you can visit www.bbb.org and search the name of the organization to find out if they are legit.
