NEW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James has warned New Yorkers to be cautious in charitable giving for Caribbean hurricane relief.
James urged New Yorkers on Friday to be careful in supporting relief efforts in response to the devastating effects of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica and across some Caribbean islands.
She said The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) warns New Yorkers to be “wary of sham charities attempting to take advantage of their concern” and encourages everyone to ensure they are donating to legitimate charitable efforts and organisations.
“My heart breaks for the victims of Hurricane Melissa, and I thank the brave first responders who have jumped into action to provide aid,” said Attorney General James. “As New Yorkers seek to support relief efforts, I urge them to be careful of sham charities that prey on generosity and make sure they are giving to trustworthy organisations and groups.
“I encourage anyone who experiences any issues when donating to contact my office,” she added.
James warned that fraudulent organisations can try to take advantage of New Yorkers’ good intentions, especially following natural disasters.
“Given the significant impact of Hurricane Melissa across the Caribbean, it is essential for New Yorkers to be informed as they seek to help those in need,” she said.
“Find Out Who Is Soliciting. If you receive a solicitation by email, find out who is behind that email address. Contact the charity whose name is in the email or visit its website to find out if the email is really from the charity,” she urged. “Do not give personal information or your credit card number in response to an email solicitation unless you have checked out the charity.
“Before giving through social media or fundraising sites, research the identity of the organiser of the fundraising efforts and ask the same questions you would of a charity,” James added. “Online platforms that host groups and individuals soliciting for causes may not thoroughly vet those who use their service. Donors should only give to campaigns conducted by people whom they know. Donors also should take a close look at the site’s FAQs (frequently asked questions) and Terms and Conditions to see what fees will be charged.
“Also, don’t assume that charities recommended on social media sites, blogs, or other websites have already been vetted,” she continued. “Research the charity yourself to confirm that the charity is aware of the campaign and has given its approved permission for the use of its name or logo. If available, sign up for updates from the campaign organiser to keep abreast of how contributions to the campaign are being spent.”
Meantime, as the Caribbean reels from the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa, the United Nations said on Friday that humanitarian agencies are stepping up efforts to bring relief to thousands of affected people.
The UN said torrential rain, storm surges and landslides caused by the hurricane have left a trail of destruction across the region, with homes flattened, roads and bridges washed away, and vast areas still without power or Internet access and other telecommunications.
The UN humanitarian affairs office (OCHA) said that aid supplies are on the way and that emergency teams are supporting government responses in Jamaica, Cuba and Haiti.
In Jamaica, the UN said its World Food Program (WFP) has assisted the government with logistics, communications, and cash-based support, delivering 5 000 food kits — enough to feed 15 000 people for a week. (CMC)
