The recent devastation wrought by Hurricane Helene across East Tennessee has left a trail of shattered homes, disrupted lives, and a community grappling with immense loss. In the face of such tragedy, the human spirit shines through with offers of aid and a desire to help those in need. Yet, amidst the outpouring of support, it’s crucial to remember that times of crisis also attract those who seek to exploit the generosity of others. To ensure your well-intentioned donations reach those who truly need them, and not fall into the hands of scammers, it is essential to approach charitable giving with both an open heart and a discerning mind.
Here’s how to give wisely and avoid scams:
Do Your Research:
- Verify Charity Registration: Before donating, check if the organization is registered with the State of Tennessee. You can do this online at the Secretary of State’s website or by calling 615-741-2555.
- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask the organization about their mission, how your donation will be used, and who will benefit. Reputable charities will be happy to answer your questions.
- Be Wary of Unsolicited Requests: If you receive a donation request via text or email, verify it directly with the charity. Scammers often use these methods to trick people.
- Independently Verify Recommendations: Don’t assume a recommendation on social media or a blog is legitimate. Do your own research to confirm the organization’s credibility.
- Scrutinize Names: Pay close attention to the organization’s name, as many charities have similar names. Scammers may try to mimic well-known organizations.
Donate Safely:
- Avoid Giving Cash: It’s best to donate by check or credit card and always obtain a receipt. Ask if your contribution is tax-deductible.
- Secure Online Donations: When donating through an app or website, ensure your donation goes directly to the organization and the website is secure (look for “https”).
- Inquire About Fundraisers: If approached by a paid fundraiser, ask how much of your donation goes to the charity and how much the fundraiser keeps.
Here is our list of reputable nonprofits that are accepting donations for East Tennessee recovery efforts: (Please note this is not a comprehensive list)
- United Way of East Tennessee Highlands Disaster Relief (Washington, Unicoi, Carter, and Johnson Counties)
- East Tennessee Foundation Neighbor to Neighbor Disaster Relief Fund
- United Way of Blount County
- Greene County AIDNET – Helene Donations | GCP
- Cocke County Mountain Strong Emergency Relief – Mountain Tough
- Region A.H.E.A.D. Small Business Flood Relief Fund – First Tennessee Development District
- Ballad Health Foundation Hurricane Helene Disaster Relief
Other Ways to Give:
- Volunteer Your Time: Consider donating your time and skills to assist with recovery efforts. Many organizations welcome volunteers. To volunteer for the disaster recovery efforts, visit the TN VOAD page here or the TEMA link here.
Remember:
- Take Your Time: Don’t feel pressured to donate on the spot. Take your time to research and choose reputable organizations. You can verify an organization at this link.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the generosity of individuals like yourself will be instrumental in the recovery process. You can ensure your contributions make a genuine impact on the lives of those in need by taking the time to research and choose reputable organizations. Giving wisely not only protects you from scams but also empowers you to be an informed and effective agent of positive change. Let us navigate this challenging time with both compassion and vigilance, ensuring that our collective efforts truly serve those who need it most and pave the way for a stronger, more resilient East Tennessee.