Be wary before bushfire or earthquake donations
By Britta Clark
The fires in Australia have been devastating with some reports saying over 20.76 million acres of land has been destroyed. Additionally, over 2,000 homes have been destroyed with at least 28 people reported dead and thousands displaced. An estimated half a billion animal lives have been lost. Many people want to know how they can help provide assistance for displaced families and wildlife or how to help the brave volunteer firefighters working to put out the flames.
Then a 6.5 magnitude earthquake hit Puerto Rico last week, which is still struggling to rebuild after the devastation caused by the 2017 Hurricane Maria. This has resulted in structural damage to buildings and massive power outages. There were also reports that some did not have water service. A number of charitable organizations are working to help those impacted by this quake.
BBB’s Wise Giving Alliance has specific advice for those wishing to assist those affected by the Australian bushfires or Puerto Rican earthquakes.
Australian-based charities
If you are considering donating to a charity based in Australia, check the registry of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission. While the registration with this government agency does not mean that the government recommends or endorses the charity, it does signify that the group has filed the appropriate paperwork.
The following Australian charities are raising funds to provide various types of assistance to people or wildlife. While they were not evaluated by the BBB Wise Giving Alliance, the American affiliates of these charities are BBB accredited charities:
—Australian Red Cross.
—Australian Salvation Army.
—Nature Conservancy Australia.
—St. Vincent de Paul Society in Australia.
—World Wildlife Fund Australia.
Some donors may have an interest in contributing to help the firefighters themselves. Local Australian fire service entities known as “brigades” accept donations to carry out their various services. If you wish to support such entities, visit an official Australian government link such as the NSW Rural Fire Service. Be cautious about appeals from those claiming to raise funds for Australian firefighters without any official connection to them. Additionally, your contribution to an Australian organization may not be deductible as a charitable gift.
United States-based charities
There are a number of U.S. charitable organizations that are accepting funding to address the Australian fires as well as the Puerto Rican earthquakes. The following list is made up of BBB Accredited Charities:
—American Red Cross.
—Direct Relief.
—Global Giving.
—International Fund for Animal Welfare.
—Save the Children.
Our strongest recommendation is to contribute to experienced organizations that meet the 20 BBB Standards for Charity Accountability, particularly in the wake of disasters. Visit give.org to access reports on these and other charities. Experienced relief organizations are more likely to provide quick and effective assistance. Newly established entities may be well intended but may not have the skills and infrastructure to provide immediate help.
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