Colorado Donors, Be Cautious: How to Safely Support Hurricane Helene Relief
In the wake of Hurricane Helene’s devastation, the need for support is urgent, but so is the need for vigilance when donating. Here’s how to ensure your contributions reach the right hands.
Jess Veit, a resident of Idaho Springs, Colorado, knows the struggle all too well. Her family home in Redington Shores, Florida, was ravaged by flooding from the hurricane. “It was completely wiped out. It’s so hard seeing the aftermath like just through a cell phone screen,” she shared. “And being so far away, it’s even harder.” To help, Veit set up a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for the reconstruction of her family’s home.
Veit isn’t alone—many Coloradans with ties to the impacted areas are turning to crowdfunding sites like GoFundMe to provide aid. However, experts warn that some fundraisers may not be what they seem.
Beware of Pop-Up Fundraisers
Meghan Compton of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) says that branches in Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina are already seeing reports of fraudulent fundraising efforts. “They say it’s going to help those affected by the storm, but that isn’t always the case,” Compton warned.
Some fundraisers might have good intentions but lack the expertise or connections to make a real impact. Others are outright scams, pocketing donations meant for relief efforts.
How to Verify a Charity
Before donating, it’s crucial to do your homework. Websites like Wise Giving Alliance, Charity Navigator, and GuideStar provide information on reputable charities, including their financial records. For those looking to contribute directly to affected individuals, GoFundMe’s Hurricane Helene Relief Hub lists verified fundraisers, offering an added layer of protection.
A GoFundMe spokesperson assured that the platform uses both technical tools and a dedicated team to screen for fraud. They also offer a refund guarantee in rare cases of misuse.
When Donating, Trust Matters
Compton advises that donations to friends or trusted individuals through crowdfunding can be safe, but the risk increases when dealing with strangers online. “If it’s somebody you know and trust, go for it,” Compton suggested. “But issues arise when it’s a friend of a friend or someone unknown.”
Veit, after navigating the verification process, has already raised thousands of dollars for her family’s repairs. Meanwhile, her Florida relatives have safely relocated to Colorado as they await the outcome of another approaching storm, Hurricane Milton. “I’m just thankful they left and that they’re heading here,” Veit said.
