Jim Rosica
Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam is asking Floridians to do a little research before donating to any cause for victims of Sunday’s mass shooting in Orlando.
Before making a donation, he said in a Monday press release to check on a charity in the department’s “Gift Givers’ Guide” at FreshFromFlorida.com.
“Charitable organizations are required to register with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services prior to soliciting contributions in Florida, and those that raise $50,000 or more in the aftermath of natural disasters or other crises must submit specific documentation to the department,” a press release said.
“If any Floridians are considering charitable gifts in the wake of this tragedy, I encourage them to research the charitable organization on our website,” Putnam said.
Consumers can help protect themselves from charity-related scams, the release added, by:
- Asking questions, such as:
- “Who is the fundraiser and who will benefit from the donation?”
- “How much of the contribution goes to the charity mentioned in the request?”
- “How much of the donation goes toward administrative and fundraising expenses?”
- Being wary of emotional appeals, and being suspicious of organizations with only vague plans for dispensing the funds.
The online Gift Givers’ Guide is here or you can call 1-800-HELP-FLA (1-800-435-7352) to find a charity’s current registration status and financial information about the charity, including how much of a donation will go toward the individuals the charity intends to help versus operating expenses.
Officials also ask residents to report suspicious solicitations by also calling 1-800-HELP-FLA (1-800-435-7352) or, for Spanish speakers, 1-800-FL-AYUDA (352-9832).
“As we all mourn the loss of these innocent lives, may we be here for each other as a family and provide support,” Putnam said.
