Russia’s attack on Ukraine has many people in southern Wisconsin looking for ways to donate to help people in need.
People want to help. Here is what Channel 3000 wrote recently about being smart in how you help:
Unfortunately, like with many emotional and traumatic events, the Better Business Bureau of Wisconsin says scammers may take the opportunity to try to take advantage of that good will.
The BBB’s Wise Giving Alliance says there are a handful of charities that are BBB-accredited, meeting 20 different standards for accountability — meaning you can trust that your money will go where you want it to go. Right now, those include:
Catholic Relief Services
Direct Relief
GlobalGiving
International Rescue Committee
Save the Children
You can still give to an organization that is not accredited with the BBB, but experts say there are a few things you should keep in mind or ask yourself before giving, including:
Can the charity get to the affected area? (Not all relief organizations will be able to provide it to the affected people quickly)
Should you send clothing and food? (Those drives may not be practical because logistics and timing to deliver those items could be challenging)
Does the relief charity meet BBB charity standards? (You can view an evaluation completed by the BBB Wise Giving Alliance)
Is the charity experienced in providing emergency relief? (Experienced charities are more likely to deliver aid as soon as possible)
Are you considering crowdfunding appeals? (Some crowdfunding sites do very little vetting of people or organizations claiming to help)
Does the appeal make exaggerated financial claims, like “100% will be spent on relief?” (Charities have expenses, anyone claiming otherwise is potentially misleading you
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